A solid sphere is rotating freely about its symmetry axis in free space. The radius of the sphere is increased keeping its mass same. Which of the following physical quantities would remain constant for the sphere?
- Angular velocity
- Moment of inertia
- Rotational kinetic energy
- Angular momentum
Answer
(4) Angular momentum
Solution
In free space no external torque acts on the sphere: ext = 0
⇒ dLdt = 0 ⇒ L = I = constant
As the radius increases, I = 25MR2 increases
⇒ decreases (so angular velocity changes)
⇒ K = L22I decreases (rotational kinetic energy changes)
∴ Only the angular momentum remains constant.
Answer: (4)