Work done by centripetal force in circular motion is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Work done by centripetal force in circular motion is:
A. Zero
B. Positive
C. Negative
D. Depends on radius
Answer: Option A
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Centripetal force acts radially inward, perpendicular to tangential displacement. Work W = F·d·cosθ; θ=90° ⇒ cos90°=0 ⇒ W=0. No energy transfer occurs; speed remains constant in uniform circular motion. Memory tip: 'Perpendicular force ⇒ zero work'. Conceptual question testing work-energy understanding, common in competitive exams to identify misconceptions about circular motion.

Discuss this Question (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to start the discussion!

Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
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.

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
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.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
The phenomenon of polarization of light demonstrates that light is a:
A. Longitudinal wave
B. Transverse wave
C. Mechanical wave
D. Matter wave

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Polarization (restriction of electric field oscillation to one plane) is possible only for transverse waves, where oscillations are perpendicular to propagation direction. Longitudinal waves (e.g., sound) cannot be polarized as oscillations are along propagation. This was key evidence for light's transverse wave nature. Memory aid: 'Polarization ⇒ transverse wave; light is EM transverse wave'. This conceptual question tests wave optics fundamentals, frequently examined in competitive exams. Always distinguish wave types: transverse (light, string waves) vs longitudinal (sound, spring waves).

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
Torricelli's Law states that the velocity of efflux of a fluid through a sharp-edged hole at the bottom of a tank filled to a depth 'h' is identical to:
A. The critical velocity for turbulent flow.
B. The velocity of a sound wave in that fluid.
C. The terminal velocity of the fluid.
D. The velocity acquired by a freely falling body dropped from height 'h'.

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Torricelli's Law is a direct application of Bernoulli's principle. It proves mathematically that the velocity of fluid exiting a small hole (efflux velocity v) is v = sqrt(2gh). This is exactly the same velocity a solid body would acquire if it fell freely under gravity from rest over the same vertical height 'h'.

This question belongs to: Science Physics