A mass m is moving with a constant velocity along a line...

A mass $m$ is moving with a constant velocity along a line parallel to the $x$ -axis, away from the origin. Its angular momentum with respect to the origin:
(a) is zero
(b) remains constant
(c) goes on increasing
(d) goes on decreasing

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Key Concepts

Angular Momentum

Angular momentum is a vector quantity defined as the cross product of the position vector and the linear momentum vector. It characterizes the rotational equivalent of linear momentum and is fundamental in analyzing the rotational motion of particles or rigid bodies, especially when assessing their rotation about a fixed point or axis.

Cross Product

The cross product is a mathematical operation between two vectors that results in a third vector perpendicular to the plane containing the original vectors. Its magnitude depends on the magnitudes of the two vectors and the sine of the angle between them, making it essential for determining quantities like angular momentum, where both the direction and magnitude of rotation are important.

Torque and Its Relationship to Angular Momentum

Torque is the rate of change of angular momentum and results from a force acting at a distance from the point of rotation. When no external torque is present, the angular momentum of a system remains constant. This principle is applied in cases of constant velocity motion, where the absence of net external forces (and thus torques) ensures that the angular momentum does not vary over time.

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