Question

A body moves in a circular path with constant speed. Its kinetic energy:

• A. Remains constant
• B. Goes on increasing
• C. Goes on decreasing
• D. Becomes zero

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To solve the problem, we need to understand the kinetic energy of a body moving in a circular path at constant speed.

1. Understanding Kinetic Energy:

- Kinetic energy (KE) depends on the mass and speed of the body.
- Formula: \[ KE = \frac{1}{2} m v^2 \] where \( m \) is mass and \( v \) is speed.

2. Motion in a Circular Path:

- When a body moves in a circle at constant speed, its velocity direction changes, but the speed (magnitude of velocity) remains constant.
- Since kinetic energy depends only on speed (not direction), KE remains constant during circular motion.

3. Additional Notes:

- Even though the body accelerates towards the center (centripetal acceleration), this does not change its speed.
- Therefore, kinetic energy stays the same as long as speed is constant.

Final Answer:

The kinetic energy of a body moving in a circular path with constant speed remains constant.