For a body moving in a circular path, the work done by the centripetal force is: (a) Negative (b

step 1 In this question we have given a body which is moving in a circular path and we have to find the

For a body moving in a circular path, the work done by the...

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Key Concepts

Work (Physics)

In physics, work is defined as the dot product of force and displacement. This concept means that only the component of force in the direction of the displacement contributes to work. Since the centripetal force is perpendicular to the displacement in uniform circular motion, the work done by this force is zero.

Circular Motion

Circular motion refers to the movement of a body along the circumference of a circle. In this type of motion, even if the speed (the magnitude of velocity) remains constant, the continual change in direction means the body is undergoing acceleration. This acceleration is directed towards the center, which is key to understanding forces acting in such systems.

Centripetal Force

Centripetal force is the net force causing the inward acceleration of an object moving in a circular path. It always acts perpendicular to the object’s instantaneous direction of motion, directing it towards the center of the circle. Understanding this force is vital as it explains why, despite being constantly acted upon by force, there is no work done if the force is always perpendicular to displacement.

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