1 Rotational Dynamics
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Q: Define circular motion. Give some
examples of circular motion.
Ans: Circular motion: - The motion of a
particle along the circumference of a circle
is called as circular motion.
For example: -
1. Motion of the moon around the earth,
2. Motion of earth around the sun.
3. Motion of electron around the nucleus
4. motion of tips of the hands of the clock
5. motion of roller coaster looping the loop
6. motion of hammer thrown in Olympic
games
Q: State characteristics of circular motion.
Ans: Characteristics of circular motion:
1 It is an accelerated motion. As the
direction of velocity changes at every
instant, it is an accelerated motion.
2 It is a periodic motion: During the
motion, particle repeats its path along the
same trajectory Thus the motion is
periodic.
Kinematics in Circular motion:
Q: Define (a) radius vector (b) angular
displacement (c) angular velocity
Ans: (a) Radius vector 𝑟𝑟⃗-Radius vector is
defined as the vector drawn from the
center of the circle to the position of the
particle.
(b)Angular displacement – Angular
displacement is defined as the angle
described by radius vector in a given time
at the centre of circle.
⃗
Angular displacement ‘𝜃𝜃’ is analogous to
linear displacement ‘𝑠𝑠⃗’ in translational
motion.
(c)Angular Velocity – Rate of change of
angular displacement with respect to time is
called as angular velocity
• Average angular velocity is given by,
����⃗
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
𝜔𝜔
�⃗ =
𝑑𝑑𝑡𝑡
• Angular velocity is analogous to linear
velocity
����⃗
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
𝑣𝑣
⃗ =
𝑑𝑑𝑑𝑑
 Angular velocity is a vector quantity and
its direction is along the axis of rotation,
perpendicular to the plane of the circle,
given by right hand thumb rule
Q: State Right hand rule.
Ans: Right hand rule: Imagine the axis of
rotation to be held in your right hand with
fingers curled around it and thumb stretched
along the axis of rotation. If curled fingers
indicate the direction of rotation then thumb
indicates direction of the vectors i.e. angular
displacement, angular velocity.
Q: State relation between linear velocity
and angular velocity.
Ans: Relation between Linear velocity and
angular velocity:
Relation between tangential velocity 𝑣𝑣⃗ and
angular velocity 𝜔𝜔 �⃗ is given by,
𝑣𝑣⃗ = 𝜔𝜔�⃗ × 𝑟𝑟⃗
In scalar form, above equation can be written
as,
v = ωr
Q: Define angular acceleration.
Ans: Angular Acceleration: Rate of change
of angular velocity with respect to time is
called as angular acceleration
Angular acceleration is given by

 d ω
α=
dt
Angular acceleration is a vector quantity and
its direction is along the axis of rotation
perpendicular to the plane of circle. For
accelerated motion (i.e. when angular
velocity is increasing) its direction is same as
the direction of angular velocity). For
retarded motion (i.e. when angular velocity is

decreasing its direction is opposite to the
direction of angular velocity)
Q: State relation between tangential linear
acceleration and angular acceleration.
Ans: Relation between tangential linear
acceleration and angular acceleration:
Relation between linear and angular
acceleration is given by.
  
at= α × r
In scalar form above equation can be written
as
at = rα
Q: Define centripetal acceleration or
radial acceleration. State formula for
centripetal acceleration. What is direction
of centripetal acceleration?
Centripetal Acceleration: The acceleration
which is produced to change in direction of
linear velocity in circular motion and which
is responsible for circular motion is called as
centripetal acceleration or radial
acceleration.
Centripetal acceleration is given by,
 
ac = −ω 2 r
Its magnitude is given by,
v2
a=c = ω 2= r vω
r remains constant.
Direction of centripetal acceleration is along
the radius towards the center of the circle.
 
ac = −ω 2 r
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Q: Define period and frequency of circular
motion.
Ans: Period of circular motion (T): Time
required for particle to complete one
revolution is called as period of revolution.
Frequency of circular motion (n): Number
of revolutions performed by a particle per
second is called as frequency of circular
motion.
Q: State relation between period and
frequency of circular motion.
Ans:
Relation between period and frequency:
1 1
n = or T =
T n
Q: State relation between period and
angular velocity.
Ans: Relation between period and angular
velocity:
2π
ω=
T
Q: State relation between frequency and
angular velocity.
Ans: Relation between frequency and
angular velocity:
ω = 2π n
Q: What is uniform circular motion?
Ans: Uniform circular motion (UCM)-The
motion of a particle along the circumference
of a circle with constant speed is called as
uniform circular motion.
1 In UCM, the direction of linear velocity
changes continuously but its magnitude
2 Direction of velocity is always tangential
to
2

the circular path.
3 The acceleration responsible for this
circular motion is radial or centripetal
acceleration
 
which is given by,
ar = −ω r
2 opposite to the direction of angular
4 In UCM magnitude of centripetal
acceleration is given by,
2
v
=a ω 2= r = vω
r
5 Centripetal acceleration is always
directed towards the center of circular
motion.
Examples of UCM are, motion of any
particle of ceiling fan when fan is rotating
uniformly.
Q: What is Non-Uniform circular motion?
Ans:
NON-UNIFORM CIRCULAR MOTION
When a particle is rotating with
changing speed then it is called as non-
uniform circular motion. For example when
a ceiling fan is switched on or off then its
speed increases or decreases. This motion is
called as non-uniform circular motion.
1 In non-uniform circular motion
magnitude and direction of linear
velocity both changes. Direction of
linear velocity is always tangential to the
circle which changes at every point.
2 Centripetal acceleration is still directed
toward the center of circular motion. But
the magnitude of centripetal or radial
acceleration is not constant.
3 Tangential acceleration which is
responsible for the non-uniform circular
motion is directed along the tangent to
the circle. For accelerated motion
tangential acceleration is tangentially
forward, while for retarded motion
tangential accelerations is tangentially
backward.
4 Magnitude of angular velocity is
changing but direction remains constant
which is perpendicular to the plane of the
circle given by right hand rule.
5 As the plane of the circular motion
remains constant direction of angular
acceleration is constant and along the
axis of circular motion.
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6 For increasing speed direction of angular
acceleration is the same as direction of
angular velocity while for decreasing
speed direction of angular acceleration is
velocity.
Dynamics of circular motion (Centripetal
force and Centrifugal force)
Q: Define centripetal force. State formula
for centripetal force. What is direction of
centripetal force? 
Ans: Centripetal force ( FCP ):Centripetal
force is force acting on particle performing
circular motion, which is along radius of
circle and directed towards the center of
circle
1 Centripetal force is given by,
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
������⃗
𝐹𝐹𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 = −𝑟𝑟𝜔𝜔2 𝑟𝑟⃗ = − 3 𝑟𝑟⃗
𝑟𝑟
2 Magnitude of centripetal force is given
by,
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
𝐹𝐹𝐶𝐶𝐶𝐶 = 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝜔𝜔2 = = 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
𝑟𝑟
3 Direction of centripetal force is along the
radius towards the center of circle.
4 Centripetal acceleration is caused by
centripetal force. This  centripetal

acceleration is given by, ar = −ω 2 r
Q: Define centrifugal force. State formula
for centrifugal force. What is direction of
centrifugal force?
→
Ans: Centrifugal force ( FCF ): Pseudo force
acting on a body performing uniform
circular motion along the radius away from
the center is called as centrifugal force
 Magnitude of centrifugal force is same as
that of centripetal force.
FCF = mass × acceleration of reference frame.
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mv 2
∴ FCF = = mrω 2 = mvω
r
 In vector form centrifugal force can be
written as,
 mv 2 
FCF = + r= + mω 2 r
r
 Centrifugal force is not produced due to
known interaction. It arises due to centripetal
acceleration of frame of reference. Hence it
is not a real force. For this reason it is called
as pseudo force.
Applications of Uniform Circular Motion
Q: Derive an expression for maximum
speed of a vehicle moving along a
horizontal circular trace. On what factors
this force depends? Show that maximum
speed does not depend upon mass of the
vehicle.
Ans: Vehicle along a horizontal circular
track:
Consider a vehicle moving along a horizontal
curved road .Let ‘m’ is the mass of vehicle, v
is velocity and r is radius of the curved road.
The force of static friction provides
centripetal force, necessary for circular
motion of a vehicle. The force of static
friction prevents vehicle from outward
slipping or skidding. It balances the
centrifugal force.
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Where, µs is coefficient of static friction and
N is normal reaction.
But horizontal surface, N = mg
mvmax 2
∴ = µ s mg
r
At the maximum possible speed
vmax = µ s rg
This is the expression for maximum
speed of a vehicle moving along a horizontal
curved road.
Maximum speed depends upon (i)
coefficient of static friction (ii) radius of
curvature of road and (iii) acceleration due to
gravity
As the term ‘m’ is absent in this
equation, maximum speed does not depend
on mass of a vehicle.
Q: Derive an expression for minimum
speed of a vehicle moving in horizontal
circle on vertical cylindrical wall.
Ans: Well (or Wall) of Death:
Consider a vehicle of mass m revolving on a
vertical cylindrical one of radius r.
Various forces acting on the vehicle are
1 Normal reaction acting horizontally
inward towards the center.
2 Weight mg acting vertically downward
3 Force of static friction acting vertically
upward between vertical wall and the
tyres.

Centripetal force = force of static friction

mv 2
= fs Normal reaction N acts as the centripetal
r force necessary for circular motion and force
At the maximum possible speed we can write, of friction fs balance is the weight mg and
mvmax 2 prevents skidding in downward direction.
= ( f s ) max
r mv 2
2 =N mr = ω2 ......(1) …… (1)
mvmax r
= µs N
r mg = fs …………….(2)
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Force of static friction fs is always less than
or equal to µsN
∴ fs ≤ µs N …… (3)
Keeping values of N and fs from equation (1)
and (2) in equation (3) we get,
 mv 2 
∴ mg ≤ µ s  
 r 
µs v 2
∴g ≤
r Ncosθ balances the weight.
∴ µ s v ≥ rg
2
i.e. Ncosθ = mg_____________(1)
rg Nsinθ acts as the centripetal force.
∴ v2 ≥ mv 2
µs i.e., N sin θ = ___________(2)
r
rg
∴v ≥ Divide equation (2) by equation (1),
µs
N sin θ mv 2 / r
=
∴ vmin =
rg N cos θ mg
µs v2
This is the expression for minimum tan θ =
rg
speed with which vehicle can move on
 v2 
vertical cylindrical wall. θ = tan −1  
 
 rg 
Q: Drive and expression for angle of
This is an expression for the angle of
banking. On factors this angle of banking
banking. It depends upon
depends? Show that angle of banking does
 Safety speed of a vehicle.
not depend upon mass of a vehicle.
 Radius of curvature of a curved road.
Ans: Vehicle on a banked road
 Acceleration due to gravity.
The process of raising outer edge of road
As term m is absent in this equation, angle of
over its inner edge through certain angle is
banking does not depend upon mass of a
known as banking of road. The angle made
vehicle.
by the surface of road with horizontal surface
From equation (3), we can write,
of road is called angle of banking.
Consider a vehicle of mass m moving v 2 = rg tan θ
along a curved road. Let v is velocity of a vs = rg tan θ
vehicle, θ is angle of banking and r is radius This is an expression for most safe speed
of curvature. (not a maximum or a minimum speed). It
The various forces acting on the vehicle depends upon,
are  Radius of curvature of a road
 Its weight mg acting in vertically surface.
downward direction  Acceleration due to gravity.
 Normal reaction N acting perpendicular to  Angle of banking.
the road surface As the term m is absent in above equation,
Normal reaction N can be resolved into two maximum speed does not depend upon mass
perpendicular components i.e. of a vehicle.
Ncosθ - in vertically upward direction
Nsinθ - in horizontal direction. Q: Derive an expression for minimum
speed of vehicle moving along banked
curve road.

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Ans: Expression for Minimum speed on But fs = µsN for minimums possible speed
banked Road
Consider a vehicle of moving on banked (m(v1 ) 2min / r ) N sin θ − µ s N cos θ
road as shown in figure ∴ =
mg µ s N sin θ + N cos θ
 sin θ 
N cos θ  − µs 
cos θ
2
=  
(v )
∴ 1 min
rg  µ s sin θ 
N cos θ  + 1) 
 cos θ 
∴
2
(v1 ) min
=
( tan θ − µ s)

Let,
m – is mass of a vehicle
r – is radius of curvature of road
θ - is angle of banking
µs - coefficient of statistics friction
• When speed of vehicle 𝑉𝑉1 < �𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡 𝜃𝜃,
then various forces acting on the vehicle
are, Weight ‘mg’ acting vertically
downward
• Normal reaction N in upward direction
through center of gravity and
perpendicular to banked road/surface.
• Force of friction ‘fs’ between road and
tyre along angle of inclination and
upward.
Normal reaction ‘N’ can be resolved into two
perpendicular components
1) Nsinθ horizontally towards center of
curvature (in figure towards left)
2) Ncosθ vertically upward
Similarly force of friction ‘fs’ can be resolved
into two perpendicular components
1) fs cosθ in horizontal direction opposite to
Nsinθ
2) fs sinθ in vertically upward direction
Weight ‘mg’ balances fssinθ and and N cosθ
∴ mg = fs sinθ + N cos θ ……….(1)
Resultant of Nsinθ and fscosθ acts as
centripetal force necessary for circular
motion
𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣 2
∴ 𝑟𝑟 1 = 𝑁𝑁 𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 𝜃𝜃 − 𝑓𝑓𝑠𝑠 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 𝜃𝜃……(2)
 Its weight mg acting in vertically
Dividing equation (2) by equation (1) we get,
(𝑚𝑚𝑣𝑣12 /𝑟𝑟) 𝑁𝑁 𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 𝜃𝜃 − 𝑓𝑓𝑠𝑠 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 𝜃𝜃
=
𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚 𝑓𝑓𝑠𝑠 𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠𝑠 𝜃𝜃 + 𝑁𝑁 𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐 𝜃𝜃
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rg ( µs tan θ + 1) )
∴ (v1 ) min
2
=
rg
( tan θ − µs )
(1 + µs tan θ )
∴ vmin =rg
( tan θ − µs )
(1 + µs tan θ )
This is an expression for minimum speed of
a vehicle moving along a banked road. It
depends upon,
1. Radius of curvature of a road surface.
2. Acceleration due to gravity.
3. Angle of banking.
4. Coefficient of friction µs.
As the term m is absent in above equation,
minimum speed does not depend upon mass
of a vehicle.
For µs ≥ tanθ, vmin = 0. This is true for most
the rough roads, banked at smaller angles .
If µs = 0, then ∴ vmin = rg tan θ
This is the safe speed banked road as we
don’t take help of friction.
Q: Derive an expression of maximum
speed of a vehicle moving along a banked
road. State the factors on which maximum
speed depends. Show that maximum speed
does not depend upon mass of a vehicle.
Ans: Expression for maximum speed on
banked road:
Consider a vehicle of mass m moving
along a curved road. Let v is velocity of a
vehicle, θ is angle of banking and ‘r’ is radius
of curvature. Let ‘f’ is frictional force
between tyres of the vehicle and road surface.
The various forces acting on the vehicle are
downward direction
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 Shri Physics
 Normal reaction N in upward direction Keeping these values in equation (3) we get.
through center of gravity and 2
(v2 ) max N sin θ + µ s N cos θ
perpendicular to banked road/surface. = …..(4)
rg N cos θ − µ s N sin θ
 sin θ 
N cos θ  + µs 
(v ) 2
 cos θ 
2 max
=
rg  sin θ 
N cos θ 1 − µ s 
 cos θ 
(v2 ) 2max
=
( tan θ + µs )
rg (1 − µs tan θ )
2
(v2 ) max = rg
( tan θ + µs )
(1 − µs tan θ )
vmax = rg
( tan θ + µs )
The frictional force between tyre of vehicle (1 − µs tan θ )
and road surface can be resolved into two This is an expression for safety speed
perpendicular components as, (maximum speed). It depends upon,
(i) fscosθ -along horizontal direction 5. Radius of curvature of a road surface.
(ii) fssinθ - along vertically downward 6. Acceleration due to gravity.
direction. 7. Angle of banking.
Normal reaction N can be resolved into two 8. Coefficient of friction µs.
perpendicular components i.e. As the term m is absent in above equation,
(i) Ncosθ - in vertically upward direction. maximum speed does not depend upon mass
(ii) Nsinθ - in horizontal direction. of a vehicle.
The component Ncosθ of normal reaction is If µs = cot θ, vmax = ∞. But, (µs)max = 1, Thus
balanced by weight mg of vehicle and for θ ≥ 450, vmax = ∞
component f sinθ of frictional force. If µs = 0, then ∴ 𝑣𝑣�𝑟𝑟𝑟𝑟 𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡𝑡 𝜃𝜃 𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚𝑚
i.e. mg + fs sinθ = Ncosθ
This is the safe speed banked road as we
∴ mg = N cosθ - fs sinθ ……. (1)
don’t take help of friction.
Horizontal component Nsinθ along with
component fs sinθ of frictional force acts as Q: Define conical pendulum. Derive an
necessary centripetal force. expression for period and frequency of
mv 2 conical pendulum. State the factors on
∴ N sin θ + f s cos θ =
r which period and frequency of conical
2
mv pendulum depends. Show that period and
∴ = N sin θ + f s cos θ ….(2) frequency does not depend upon mass of
r
Divide equation (2) by equation (1), pendulum.
Ans: Conical pendulum:- Conical
(mv22 / r ) N sin θ + f s cos θ
= pendulum is a simple pendulum which is
mg N cos θ − f s sin θ given such a motion that bob describes a
v22 N sin θ + f s cos θ horizontal circle and the string describes a
= …….(3)
rg N cos θ − f s sin θ cone
Consider a body of mass m revolving in a
The magnitude of frictional force
horizontal circle with constant angular
depends on speed of vehicle for given road
velocity ω at the lower end of the string of
surface and tyres of vehicle.
length l whose upper end is fixed. As the
Maximum force of friction fs for maximums
body revolves, the string sweeps over the
speed vmax is given by,
surface of cone, and therefore this system is
fs = µsN…….(4)
called as conical pendulum.
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Let, g sin θ
S- rigid support ∴ω =
r cos θ
T0- tension in the string
But from figure, r = Lsin θ
l – length of the string
v – velocity g sin θ
∴ω =
θ - semi vertical angle of cone L sin θ cos θ
mg – weight of sphere (bob) g
Let the string makes an angle θ with the ∴ω =
L cos θ
vertical. Then forces on mass m are,
2π
(i) Weight mg acting vertically downward But, ω =
(ii) Force T0 due to tension in the string T
along the length of the string 2π g
∴ =
Tension T0 is resolved into two T L cos θ
perpendicular components,
(a) T0 cosθ , acting vertically upward T L cos θ
(b) T0 sinθ, horizontally towards the ∴ =
2π g
center of the circle.
L cos θ
∴T =2π
g
This is an expression for period of conical
pendulum.
Period of conical pendulum depends upon
(i) Length L
(ii) angle θ
(iii) acceleration due to gravity
As term ‘m’ is absent in above equation,
period of conical pendulum does not depend
upon mass of pendulum.
Frequency of revolution will be given by,
1
n=
T
1 g
∴n =
2π L cos θ
Frequency of conical pendulum depends
upon
(i) Length L
T0 cosθ balances the weight of the string. (ii) angle θ
∴T0 cosθ = mg ……………. (1) (iii) acceleration due to gravity
T0 sinθ acts as centripetal force As term ‘m’ is absent in above equation,
frequency of conical pendulum does not
T0 sin θ = mrω 2 …….. (2)
depend upon mass of pendulum.
Divide equation (2) by equation (1)
T0 sin θ mrω 2 Q: What is controlled vertical circular
=
T0 cos θ mg motion and vertical circular motion
controlled by gravity.
rω 2 sin θ
∴ = Ans: Vertical Circular Motion
g cos θ There are two types of vertical circular
g sin θ motions as follows.
∴ω 2 =
r cos θ (a) A controlled vertical circular motion
such as a giant wheel or similar games. In this
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case the speed is either kept constant or NOT
totally controlled by gravity.
(b) Vertical circular motion controlled only
by gravity. In this case, we initially supply
the necessary energy (mostly) at the lowest
point. Then onwards, the entire kinetics is
governed by the gravitational force. During
the motion, there is interconversion of kinetic
energy and gravitational potential energy.
Point Mass Undergoing Vertical Circular
Motion Under Gravity:
Q: Derive an expression for minimum
possible speed at uppermost position in
vertical circular motion.
Ans: Suppose a bob (treated as a point mass)
is whirled in a vertical circle with the help of
massless, inextensible and flexible string. At
any position of the bob various forces acting
on the bob are
Consider a bob (treated as a point
mass) tied to a (practically) massless,
inextensible and flexible string. It is whirled
along a vertical circle so that the bob
performs a vertical circular motion and the
string rotates in a vertical plane. At any
position of the bob,
there are only two forces acting on the bob:
(a) its weight mg, vertically downwards,
which is constant and
(b) the force due to the tension along the
string, directed along the string and towards
the center. Its magnitude changes
periodically with time and location.
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As the motion is non uniform, the resultant
of these two forces is not directed towards the
center except at the uppermost and the
lowermost positions of the bob. At all the
other positions, part of the resultant is
tangential and is used to change the speed.
Uppermost position (A): Both, weight mg
and force due to tension TA are downwards,
i.e., towards the center. In this case, their
resultant is used only as the centripetal force.
Thus, if vA is the speed at the uppermost
point, we get,
mv A2
mg + TA =
r
Radius r of the circular motion is the length
of the string. For minimum possible speed at
this point (or if the motion is to be realized
with minimum possible energy),
TA = 0, ∴ (VA ) min = rg
This is an expression for minimum possible
speed at uppermost position in vertical
circular motion.
Q: Derive an expression for minimum
possible speed at lowermost position in
vertical circular motion.
Ans: Lowermost position (B): Force due to
the tension, TB is vertically upwards, i.e.,
towards
the center, and opposite to mg. In this case
also their resultant is the centripetal force. If
VB is the speed at the lowermost point, we
get,
mvB2
TB − mg = ……………(1)
r
While coming down from the uppermost to
the lowermost point, the vertical
displacement is 2r and the motion is
governed only by gravity. Hence the
corresponding decrease in the gravitational
potential energy is converted into the kinetic
energy.
1 2 1 2
mg= (2r ) mvB − mv A
2 2
∴ vB − v A =
2 2
4rg
∴ (vb ) 2min − (v A ) min
2
=
4rg …..(2)
But, (VA ) min = rg
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∴ (V ) =
2
A min rg
Keeping this value in equation (2) we get,
∴ (vb ) 2min − rg =4rg
∴ (vb ) 2min =
5rg
∴ (VB ) min =5rg
This is an expression for minimum possible
speed at lowermost position in vertical
circular motion.
Q: Derive an expression for minimum
possible speed at horizontal position in
vertical circular motion.
Ans: Positions when the string is horizontal
(C and D): Force due to the tension is the
only force towards the center as weight mg is
perpendicular to the tension. Thus, force due
to the tension is the centripetal force used to
change the direction of the velocity and
weight mg is used only to change the speed.
Using similar mathematics, it can be shown
that,
TC – TA = TD – TA = 3mg
(=
vc ) min (=
vD ) min 3rg
This is an expression for minimum possible
speed at horizontal position in vertical
circular motion.
Arbitrary positions: Force due to the tension
and weight are neither along the same line,
nor perpendicular. Tangential component of
weight is used to change the speed. It
decreases the speed while going up and
increases it while coming down.
Q: Show that difference of tension at top
and bottom in vertical circular motion is
6mg.
Ans: Difference of tension at top and
bottom
At topmost position in vertical circular
motion,
mv A2
mg + TA = …….. (1)
r
At lowermost position in vertical circular
motion,
mv 2
TB − mg =B ……. (2)
r upward
Eq (2) – Eq (1) gives
TB – TA = 6 mg (proved)
Mass tied to a rod:
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When a point mass attached to a
massless and rigid rod is whirled in a vertical
circle, then there is no condition minimum
tension in the rod. Therefor there is no
condition of minimum speed at the top of the
circle. Minimum speed can be zero also.
It can be proved that minimum speed at the
bottom is
(vlowermost ) min = 2 rg
Minimum speed at horizonal position is
given by,
(vhorizontal ) min = 2rg
Difference of tension at top and bottom
position is given by,
Tlowermost – Tuppermost = 6 mg
Q: Explain circular motion of vehicle in
sphere of death.
Ans: Sphere of Death: When two wheeler
rider performs circular motion inside a
hollow sphere, he starts with small horizontal
circles. Finally he performs revolutions along
vertical circles. The dynamics of this vertical
circular motion is the same as that of the
point mass tied to the string, except that the
force due to tension T is replaced by the
normal reaction force N.
If you have seen this show, try to visualize
that initially there are nearly horizontal
circles. The linear speed is more for larger
circles but angular speed (frequency) is more
for smaller circles (while starting or
stopping). This is as per the theory of conical
pendulum.
Q: Derive an expression for maximum
speed of a vehicle at the top of a convex
over bridge. Show that this maximum
speed does not depend upon mass of a
vehicle.
Ans: Vehicle at the Top of a Convex Over
Bridge: Consider a vehicle of mass ‘m’
moving with velocity ‘v’ on a horizontal
convex bridge as shown in figure.
Various forces acting on the vehicle are
1) weight mg acting vertically downward
2) normal reaction ‘N’ acting vertically
10
 Shri Physics
Velocity (v) Angular velocity
ds (ω)
v=
dt dθ
ω=
dt
Linear acceleration Angular
a=
dv acceleration
dt dω
α=
dt
Mass (m) Moment of inertia
The centripetal force necessary for the (I)
circular motion of the vehicle is resultant of Linear momentum Angular momentum
weight and normal reaction that is, P = mv L = Iω
C.=F . mg − N Force Torque
mv 2
F = ma τ = Iα
= mg − N 1 1 2
r K.E. = mv 2 K.E. = Iω
2 2
mv 2 → → → →
∴ N = mg − …….(1) Work done = F ⋅ S Work done = τ ⋅ θ
r
→ → → →
Thus, when speed of vehicle increases, Power = F ⋅ v Power = τ ⋅ ω
Normal reaction decreases. At particular Kinematical Kinematical
speed normal reaction becomes zero. Above equations equations
the speed vehicle will lose contact with the v = u + at ω = ω 0 + αt
ground. 1 1 2
Therefore the maximum speed with s = ut + at 2 θ = ω0 t + αt
2 2
which vehicle can move on convex bridge ω2 = ω02 + 2 α θ
v 2 = u 2 + 2as
without losing contact with the ground can be
Newton’s second Rate of change of
obtained by keeping N = 0 in equation (1)
law: Rate of angular momentum
mv 2
∴ 0= mg − max change of linear is equal to external
r momentum is torque
2
mvmax equal to the dL
∴ = mg =τ
r external force. dt
∴ vmax
2
=rg dp
=F
dt
∴ vmax = rg Conservation of Conservation of
This is an expression for maximum speed of linear momentum angular momentum
a vehicle at the top of convex bridge. When there is no When there is no
As the term ‘m’ is absent in above external force external torque
equation maximum speed does not depend acting on the acing on the system
upon mass of the vehicle. system of colliding of particles, then the
body then total its angular
Q: Give analogy between translational momentum is momentum remains
and rotational motion. conserved constant
Ans: Analogous quantities of
i.e. dP = 0 , when F dL
=0, when τ = 0
transnational and rotational motion: - dt dt
Linear motion Rotational motion =0 Or L = constant
(about a given When τ = 0
axis) Or P= constant,
Displacement (s) Angular when F = 0
displacement (θ)

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 Shri Physics
Q: Explain physical significane of moment 1
of Inertia. ∴E1= m1r12ω2
2
Ans: Physical significance of moment of
inertia
In rotational motion,
T= Iα…….. (1)
In linear motion,
F = ma …… (2)
Thus from equation (1) and equation (2)
angular acceleration ‘α’ and linear
acceleration ‘a’ are analogous quantities.
Torque T and force F are analogous
quantities. Mass m and moment of inertia, ‘I’
are also analogous quantities. In linear Similarly,
motion mass represents inertia i.e. tendency 1
E2= m2r22ω2,
of a body not to change the state of a linear 2
motion. Similarly M.I. represents inertia in 1
rotational motion. E3= m3r32ω2,
2
Moment of Inertia in rotational
1
motions is analogous to mass in translational & En= mnrn2ω2.
motion. Torque is analogous to Force, 2
Angular momentum is analogous to linear Total kinetic energy will be given by,
momentum, Rotational kinetic energy is E= E1+ E2+E3+……. +En.
analogous to translational kinetic energy. 1 1 1
E= m1r12ω2+ m2r22ω2+...+ mnrnω2
Expressions for force linear momentum and 2 2 2
kinetic energy contains the common term 1
mass. Similarly torque, angular momentum E= (m1r12+ m2r22+ m3r32+…..+ mnrn2) ω2.
2
and angular kinetic energy contains the
1 n 2
common term moment of inertia moment of E = ∑ mi ri  ω2.
inertia not only depends upon the mass of the 2  i =1 
body but also the distribution of mass about  n 2
the given axis of rotation. But, ∑ mi ri  = I
 i =1 
Q: Derive an expression for rotational 1
∴E = Iω2 ………… (1)
kinetic energy. 2
Ans: Expression for rotational Kinetic This is called as rotational kinetic energy of
Energy :Consider a rigid body rotating with a body.
constant angular velocity ω about an axis
passing through o. Axis of rotation is Q: What is moment of inertia or rotational
perpendicular to the plane of diagram. inertia. State the factors on which moment
Suppose body consists of n particles of of inertia depends.
masses m1,m2,m3…….mn. Ans: Moment of Inertia or Rotational
Let r1,r2,r3,…….rn are their respective Inertia :The quantity ‘I’ in rotational
distances from the axis of rotation. Let v1, v2, motion, which is analogous to mass ‘m’ in
v3…vn. are their respective linear velocities. translational motion is called as moment of
K. E. of the first particle is given by inertia.
1 Moment of inertia of an object depends upon
E1= m1v12, But, v1=r1ω 1) Individual masses and
2
1 2) The distribution of this message about the
∴E1= m1(r1ω)2. given axis of rotation.
2
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 Shri Physics
Q: Derive an expression for moment of R

inertia of a ring about an axis passing I = ∫ Ir

0
through its center and perpendicular to its
R
plane.
I = ∫ dmr 2
Ans: Moment of inertia of ring
0
Uniform ring is two dimensional object with R
negligible thickness and entire mass situated I = ∫ σ 2π r.r 2 dr
on the circumference at a distance equal to 0
radius R of the ring from the center of the R
ring. Therefore when ring is rotated about an Ir =2πσ ∫ r 3 dr
axis passing through its center and 0
perpendicular to its plane its moment of R
inertia is given by,  r4 
I = MR2 I = 2πσ  
 4 0
Where M is mass of the ring.

Q: Derive an expression for moment of I=

2πσ 4
4
r [ ] R
0

inertia of uniform disc about an axis

passing through its center and 2πσ 4
I= R
perpendicular to its plane. 4
Ans: Moment of Inertia of Uniform disc
σπR 4
I=
2
σπR 2 R 2
I=
2

But σπR = M
2

Consider a thin circular disc of mass M and
radius R rotating about an axis passing
through its centre o and perpendicular to its
plane as shown in figure.
Consider a small element of mass dm
and thickness dr in the form of ring. Let r is
radius of ring. If σ is mass per unit area, then
mass
σ=
area
∴Mass of disc M = σ πR2
Mass of ring dm = σ 2πr (dr).
M.I. of ring will be given by, Ir = dm r2
Ir =r2σ2πr (dr)
Ir = σ 2πr3 (dr) ……… (1)
Moment of inertia of disc is obtained by
integrating above equation (1),
MR 2
I=
2
This is an expression for M. I. of a disc
about an axis passing through its center and
perpendicular to its plane.
Q: Explain the concept of radius of
gyration.
Ans: Radius of gyration: We know that the
moment of inertia of a body depends not only
upon the mass of the body but also on the
distribution of mass about the given axis of
rotation. This distribution of mass of the
body about a given axis of rotation is
expressed in terms of a quantity called as
radius of gyration K
Thus
I = MK2
If radius of gyration is large, mass is widely
distributed about the axis of rotation. If K is
small then mass is closely distributed about
the given axis of rotation.

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 Shri Physics
Q: Obtain an expression for radius of M – Mass of the body
gyration of a disc about an axis passing I0 -M.I. of a body about an axis passing
through its center and perpendicular to its through o
plane. IC - M. I, of a body about an axis passing
Ans: Radius of gyration of disc: We know through C. M. and parallel to axis
that the moment of inertia of the disc about passing through O.
an Axis passing through its center and Consider a small element of mass dm
perpendicular to its plane is given by, located at a point P. Join OP and CP and draw
MR 2 perpendicular PD to OC produced such that
I= …… (1) CN = x
2
In terms of radius of gyration, M. I. I0 will be given by
I = MK2 ……… (2) I0= ∫ OD2 dm ………… (1)
From equation (1) and (2) we can write, IC=∫ CD2 dm ………….. (2)
R But in triangle ODN,
K= OD2=CN2+DN2
2 OP2= (OC + CN)2+ DN2
This equation gives radius of gyration of disc OP2=OC2+2OC.CN +CN2+ DN2
about an axis passing through its center and But, CN2+ DN2=CD2
perpendicular to its plane. OD2= OC2+2OC.CD+ CD2
OD2=h2+2hx+ CD2
Q: State and prove principle of parallel By keeping this value in equation (1), we get.
axes theorem. I0= ∫(h2+2hx+ CD2) dm
Ans- Principle of parallel axes:
I0=∫ h2 dm+∫2hx dm+∫CD2 dm
“The moment of inertia (IO) of an object
But, ∫ CD2 dm = IC
about any axis is the sum of its moment of
inertia (IC) about an axis parallel to the given ∴I0= h2 ∫ dm+2h∫xdm+ IC …….. (3)
axis, and passing through the center of mass
But, ∫dm =M and X =
∫ xdm
and the product of the mass of the object and M
the square of the distance between the two ∫xdm =XM= 0×M = 0.
axes (Mh2).” Keeping this value in equation (3), we get,
Proof- Consider a rigid body rotating about I0=h2M + 0 + IC
an axis passing through a point o as shown in I0= IC+Mh2
figure. The axis of rotation is perpendicular
This is the proof of parallel axes theorem.
to the plane of the figure.
Let C is center of mass located at the origin
Q: State and prove perpendicular axes
of the co-ordinate axes i.e.(X, Y, Z) = (0, 0,
theorem.
0)
Ans: Principle of perpendicular axes:
“The moment of inertia (Iz) of a laminar
object about an axis (z) perpendicular to its
plane is the sum of its moment of inertias
about two mutually perpendicular axes (x and
y) in its plane, all the three axes being
concurrent”
Proof- Consider a plane lamina in the
horizontal plane (X-Y plane) as shown in
figure.
X-axis and Y-axis are in the plane of lamina
and Z-axis is perpendicular to the plane of
lamina. Suppose a small element of mass
‘dm’ is situated at a point at a distance r from
Let, h-distance between o and c
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 Shri Physics
‘o’. Its distance from X axis is Y and from Y through 0. Axis of rotation is perpendicular
axis is X. to the plane of the figure.

Suppose the body consists of n particles of

Moment of inertia about X axis is given by, masses m1, m2, m3 …mn situated at the
IX=∫y2dm …………………. (1) distances r1, r2, r3 ….rn from the axis of
Moment of inertia about Y axis is given by, rotation. Let v1, v2, v3, vn are their linear
IY=∫x2dm …………………. (2) velocities and P1.P2, P3 …Pn are their
Moment of inertia about Z axis is given by, momenta. Linear momentum of first particle
IZ=∫r2dm …………………. (3) is given by,
But by geometry of figure, P1= m1 v1 But v1= r1ω
r2= x2+y2. ∴ P1= m1 r1ω
Keeping this value in equation (3), we get Angular momentum (moment of
IZ=∫(x2+y2) dm momentum) of first particle is given by,
IZ=∫x2dm+∫y2dm L1= r1 P1
IZ= IX+ IY L1= r1 m1 r1ω
This is the proof of perpendicular axis L1= m1r12ω
theorem. Similarly, L2= m2r22ω………Ln=mnrn2ω
L= L1+L2+L3+………..+Ln
Q: Explain angular momentum. L= m1r12ω+ m2r22ω+………+ mnrn2ω
Ans: Angular momentum or moment of L= (m1r12+ m2r22+………+ mnrn2) ω
Linear momentum: The quantity in  n 
rotational mechanics, analogous to linear L=  ∑ mi ri 2  ω
momentum is angular momentum or moment  i =1 
of linear momentum.  n
2
But ∑ mi ri  =I
It is similar to the torque being  i =1 

moment of a force. If P is the instantaneous ∴L= Iω
linear momentum of a particle undertaking a
 This is the expression for angular momentum
circular motion, its angular momentum L at of a body.
that instance is given by
  
L= r × P Q: Derive an expression for torque in
where r is the position vector from the axis terms of moment of inertia.
of rotation. Ans: Expression for Torque in Terms of
Its magnitude is given by, Moment of Inertia: Consider a rigid body
L = P× r sinθ, rotating with uniform angular acceleration α
  about an axis passing through a point o. Axis
where θ is smaller angle between P and r
of rotation is perpendicular to the plane of
Q: Derive and expression for angular diagram. Let the body consists of n particles
momentum. of masses m1, m2, m3…mn located at the
Ans: Expression for Angular Momentum distances of r1, r2, r3, ……….rn as shown in
in Terms of Moment of Inertia: figure.
Consider a rigid body rotating with uniform
angular velocity ω about an axis passing
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 Shri Physics
By definition
   angular momentum is given by,
L= r × P.......(1)
Differentiating above equation with respect
to time ‘t’ we get,

d L d  
=
dt dt
( r×P )
  
dL dr   dP
= × P + r × …………….(2)
dt  dt 
dt
d r  d P   
But =v, = F , and P = mv
dt dt
The torque T1 experienced by the mass m1 Keeping these values in equation (2) we get,
will be given by, 
dL    
T1=r1f1 = v × mv + r × F
But, f1= m1a1 dt

∴f1= m1 r1α (since, a1= r1α) dL    
∴T1= m1r12α = mv × v + r × F ……….(3)
dt  
Similarly,  
T2=m2r22α, But and v × v = 0 and r × F = τ
T3= m3r32 Keeping these values in equation (3) we get

Tn= mnrn2α dL 
=τ
Total torque experienced by a body will be, dt

T= T1+T2+T3+……..+Tn  dL
T = m1r12α+ m2r22α+……+ mnrn2α OR τ =
dt
T = [m1r12+ m2r22+ m3r32 +……+mnrn2] α If resulting torque acting on rotating particle
 n 
2 
T = ∑ mi ri  α is zero then, τ = 0 , ∴
dL
=0
 i =1  dt

 n
2 ∴ L is constant
But, I = ∑ m i ri 
 i =1  Thus when torque acting on rotating particle
∴T = Iα is zero, angular momentum remains constant.
In vector form this equation can be written as
  Q: Give some examples of law of
τ = Iα
conservation of angular momentum.
Direction of torque is same as the direction of Ans: Examples of Law of conservation of
angular acceleration i.e. parallel to the angular momentum:
direction of rotation of a body. (i) Principe of angular momentum is used by
ballet dancer. When ballets dancer
Q: State and prove law of conservation of spinning about herself folds her arms,
angular momentum. moment of inertia decreases and therefore
Ans: Conservation of Angular angular speed increases. On the other
momentum: Consider a particle rotating hand she outstretches her arms, moment
about any axis. of inertia increases and therefore angular
Let,
 speed decreases
τ = torque acting on particle (ii) A diver, while executing somersault, pulls
m
 = mass of particle in his arms and legs, so that moment of
r = position vector of particle with respect to inertia decrease and angular speed
axis of rotation. increases.

(iii) It is possible to distinguish between a raw
P = linear momentum of particle. egg and hard boiled egg by spinning each
v = linear velocity of particle.
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 Shri Physics
one on a table. Moment of inertia of boiled potential energy is converted into kinetic
egg is less than that of raw egg. Therefore energy.
angular speed of boiled egg is greater than If ‘V’ is the linear speed acquired by the body
that of raw egg. when it reaches the bottom of the inclined
plane, then loss in potential energy = gain in
Q: What is rolling motion. Derive an kinetic energy.
expression for rolling kinetic energy. 1 1
=Mgh MV 2 + I ω 2
Ans: Rolling Motion: Rolling motion is 2 2
combination of circular motion and linear
1 2  K2 
motion. In rolling motion ∴ Mgh= MV 1 + 2 
1) different particles of body perform 2  R 
circular motion about its own axis  K2 
2) Centre of mass performs purely =
2 gh V 2 1 + 2 
translational motion  R 
Therefore kinetic energy of the rolling body 2 gh
=V2
is sum of translation kinetic energy and  K2 
rotational energy. 1 + R 2 
 
=
E roll Etrans + Erot 2 gh
1 2 1 ∴V 2 = 2
=
Eroll I ω + MV 2 1+ 2
K
2 2 R
But, I = MK , and V = Rω, ∴ ω = V/R
2
2 gh
1 2 V 
2
1 ∴V = ….. (1)
=Eroll MK   + MV 2 1+ 2
K2
2 R 2 R
1 V2 1
=Eroll MK 2 2 + MV 2
2 R 2
1 K2 1
=Eroll MV 2 2 + MV 2
2 R 2
1 K 2

=Eroll MV 2  2 + 1
2 R 
1  R2 + K 2 
∴ E =Mv 2  2 
2  R 
1  K2 
=
∴E Mv 2 1 + 2  ……(1)
2  R  Let ‘a’ be the linear acceleration of the body
This is an expression for rolling kinetic while rolling down the plane.
energy. As the body starts from rest, u = 0
Since K is different for different bodies, Eroll Using third kinematical equation, v2 = u2 +
is also different for different bodies. 2as, where‘s’ is the distance (length of the
plane)
Q: Derive an expression for velocity and v2
∴a =
acceleration of rolling body on inclined 2s
plane without slipping. 2 gh 1
Ans: Consider a rigid body of mass ‘M’ and ∴a = …… (2)
 K  2S 2
radius ‘R’ rolling down inclined plane of 1 + 2 
inclination ‘θ’ from height ‘h’.  R 
Body starts from rest and roll down, it loses h h
But, sin θ = , ∴ s =
its gravitational potential energy. This s sin θ
Keeping this value in equation (2) we get,
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 Shri Physics
2 gh 1
∴a =
 K   h 
2

1 + 2  2  sin θ 
 R   
g sin θ
∴a =
K2
1+ 2
R
This equation shows that acceleration of
rolling body on inclined plane depends upon
1. Angle of inclination
2. Radius of gyration
3. Radius of body.

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