When a body is moving in a uniform circular motion, the work done by the centripetal force is zero because:
A. The force is balanced by an outward centrifugal force.
B. The body has no kinetic energy.
C. The force is always perpendicular to the instantaneous displacement.
D. The force is extremely weak.
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Work done is given by W = F * d * cos(theta). In uniform circular motion, the centripetal force is always directed strictly towards the center of the circle, while the instantaneous displacement (velocity vector) is tangential to the circle. The angle (theta) between them is exactly 90 degrees. Since cos(90) = 0, the work done by the centripetal force is always zero.
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