Question

A particle moves along a circular path with decreasing speed. Hence

• A. its resultant acceleration is towards the centre.
• B. its angular momentum remains constant.
• C. the direction of angular momentum remains constant.
• D. it moves in a spiral path with decreasing radius.

Hint:

When a particle moves in a circular path, its angular momentum vector remains constant unless acted upon by an external torque. The speed may change, but the direction of angular momentum remains fixed.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the motion of the particle.
As the particle moves along a circular path with decreasing speed, it experiences a change in velocity. The direction of the angular momentum of the particle (which is perpendicular to the plane of motion) remains unchanged. The decrease in speed implies that the particle is losing kinetic energy, but the direction of the angular momentum vector remains constant.
Step 2: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (C) the direction of angular momentum remains constant.