Asked in MDCAT Test Series — Force and Motion, Electronics

When a particle moves in a vertical circle:

Correct answer: B. It has variable tangential and radial accelerations

  • A. It has constant radial and tangential acceleration
  • B. It has variable tangential and radial accelerations
  • C. It only has constant radial acceleration
  • D. It only has constant tangential acceleration

Explanation

In a vertical circular motion, such as a particle on a string or a roller coaster loop, both radial and tangential accelerations vary. The gravitational force acting on the particle changes direction relative to the motion, affecting both accelerations. At the top of the circle, gravity causes the tangential component to point downward, while at the bottom, it points upward. Similarly, the radial acceleration is affected by the changing speed due to gravitational influence. This makes Option B correct as it accurately describes the nature of the motion. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they incorrectly assume that one or both accelerations remain constant.

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About Angular and Linear Quantities

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