CIRCULAR MOTION

1. ANGULAR DISPLACEMENT
Introduction : Angle subtended by position vector of a particle moving along any arbitrary path w.r.t. some
fixed point is called angular displacement.

 P

O
Fixed point

(a) Particle moving in an arbitrary path

O 

(b) Particle moving in straight line

O  S
r
P

(c) Particle moving in circular path

(i) Angular displacement is a vector quantity.
(ii) Its direction is perpendicular to plane of rotation and given by right hand screw rule.
Note: Clockwise angular displacement is taken as negative and anticlockwise displacement as positive.
arc linear displaceme nt
angle = =
radius radius
(iii) For circular motion S = r × 
(iv) Its unit is radian (in M.K.S)
Note : Always change degree into radian, if it occurs in numerical problems.

360 o
Note : 1 radian =     radian = 180º
2
(v) It is a dimensionless quantity i.e. dimension [M0L0T0]
Ex.1 A particle completes 1.5 revolutions in a circular path of radius 2 cm. The angular displacement of the
particle will be -
(in radian)
(A) 6  (B) 3  (C) 2  (D) 
 linear displaceme nt
Sol.(D) We have angular displacement =
radius of path
S
  =
r
Here, S = n(2r)
= 1.5 (2 × 2 × 10–2) = 6 × 10–2
6  10 2
  = = 3 radian
2  10  2
Hence correct answer is (B)

2. ANGULAR VELOCITY
It is defined as the rate of change of angular displacement of a body or particle moving in circular path.
(i) It is a vector quantity.
(ii) Its direction is same as that of angular displacement i.e. perpendicular to plane of rotation.
Note : If the particle is revolving in the clockwise direction then the direction of angular velocity is perpendicular
to the plane downwards. Whereas in case of anticlockwise direction the direction will be upwards.
(iii) Its unit is Radian/sec
(iv) Its dimension is [M0L0T–1]
Types of Angular Velocity :

2.1 Average Angular Velocity :

 Total angular displaceme nt
 av =
Total time taken
2.2 Instantaneous Angular velocity :
The intantaneous angular velocity is defined as the angular velocity at some particular instant.
Instantaneous angular velocity
 d
 = lim =
t 0 t dt
Note: Instantaneous angular velocity can also be called as simply angular velocity.
Ex.2 A particle revolving in a circular path completes first one third of circumference in 2 sec, while next one
third in 1 sec. The average angular velocity of particle will be :
(in rad/sec)

2  4 5
(A) (B) (C) (D)
3 3 3 3

 Total angular displaceme nt

Sol.(A) We have  av =
Total time
For first one third part of circle,
angular displacement,
S1 2r / 3
1 =
=
r r
For second one third part of circle,
2r / 3 2
2 = = rad
r 3
Total angular displacement,
 = 1 + 2 = 4/3 rad
Total time = 2 + 1 = 3 sec
 4 / 3 4 2
  av = rad/s = = rad/s Hence correct answer is (A)
3 6 3
Ex.3 The ratio of angular speeds of minute hand and hour hand of a watch is -
(A) 1 : 12 (B) 6 : 1 (C) 12 : 1 (D) 1 : 6
Sol.(C) Angular speed of hour hand,

 2
1 = = 12  60 rad/sec
t

angular speed of minute hand,

2 2 12
2 = rad/sec   =
60 1 1

Hence correct answer is (C).

1 2
Ex.4 The angular displacement of a particle is given by  = 0t + t , where 0 and  are constant and 0
2
= 1 rad/sec,  = 1.5 rad/sec2. The angular velocity at time, t = 2 sec will be (in rad/sec) -
(A) 1 (B) 5 (C) 3 (D) 4

1 2
Sol.(D) We have  = 0t + t
2

d
 = 0 + t
dt
This is angular velocity at time t. Now angular velocity at t = 2 sec will be

 d 
 =  dt  = 0 + 2
  t 2 sec
= 1 + 2 x 1.5 = 4 rad/sec
Hence correct answer is (D)

3. RELATION BETWEEN LINEAR VELOCITYAND ANGULAR VELOCITY

d d ds
We have      =  =  
dt ds dt
1
. v
r
ds arc
[ d = , angle =
dr radius
ds
and v = = linear velocity]
dt
 v = r
  
In vector form, v   r
Note :
(i) When a particle moves along a curved path, its linear velocity at a point is along the tangent drawn at
that point
(ii) When a particle moves along curved path, its velocity has two components. One along the radius, which
increases or decreases the radius and another one perpendicular to the radius, which makes the particle
to revolve about the point of observation.

 vsin 
(iii)  = =
t r
Ex.5 A particle moves in a circle of radius 20cm with a linear speed of 10m/s. The angular velocity will be -
(A) 50 rad/s (B) 100 rad/s (C) 25 rad/s (D) 75 rad/s
Sol. The angular velocity is
v
 =
r
Hence v = 10 m/s r = 20 cm = 0.2 m,
  = 50 rad/s
Hence correct answer is (A)

4. ANGULAR ACCELERATION

The rate of change of angular velocity is defined as angular acceleration.

If  be change in angular velocity in time t, then angular acceleration
 
 d
  lim =
t 0 t dt
(i) It is a vector quantity
(ii) Its direction is that of change in angular velocity
(iii) Unit : rad/sec2
(iv) Dimension : M0L0T–2
Ex.6 The angular velocity of a particle is given by  = 1.5 t – 3t2 + 2, the time when its angular acceleration
decreases to be zero will be -
(A) 25 sec (B) 0.25 sec (C) 12 sec (D) 1.2 sec

Sol.(B) Given that  = 1.5t – 3t2 + 2

d
 = = 1.5 – 6t
dt
When  = 0
 1.5 – 6t = 0
1.5
 t = = 0.25 sec
6
Hence correct answer is (B)

5. RELATION BETWEEN ANGULAR ACCELERATION AND LINEAR ACCELERATION

Linear acceleration = Rate of change of linear velocity
dv
 a = ....(i)
dt
Angular acceleration = Rate of change of angular velocity
d
  = ....(ii)
dt
From (i) & (ii)
a dv d(r) d
= = = r [ r is constant] = r  a =  r
 d d d
  
In vector form a =  r
Ex.7 A particle is moving in a circular path with velocity varying with time as v = 1.5t2 + 2t. If 2 cm the radius
of circular path, the angular acceleration at t = 2 sec will be -
(A) 4 rad/sec2 (B) 40 rad/sec2
(C) 400 rad/sec2 (D) 0.4 rad/sec2
Sol.(C) Given v = 1.5 t2 + 2t
Linear acceleration a
dv
= = 3t + 2
dt
 This is the linear acceleration at time t
Now angular acceleration at time t
a 3t  2
 =
  =
r 2  10  2
Angular acceleration at t = 2 sec
3  22 8
()at t = 2sec = 2 = × 102 = 4 × 102 = 400 rad/sec2
2  10 2
Hence correct answer is (C)

Ex.8 A grind stone starts from rest and has a constant-angular acceleration of 4.0 rad/sec2.The angular
displacement and angular velocity, after 4 sec. will respectively be -
(A) 32 rad, 16 rad/sec (B) 16rad, 32 rad/s
(C) 64rad, 32 rad/sec (D) 32 rad, 64rad/sec
Sol. Angular displacement after 4 sec is
1 1 1
 = 0t + t2 = t2 = × 4 × 42 = 32 rad
2 2 2
Angular velocity after 4 sec
 = 0 + t = 0 + 4 × 4 = 16 rad/sec
Hence correct answer is (A)

Ex.9 The shaft of an electric motor starts from rest and on the application of a torque, it gains an angular
acceleration given by  = 3t – t2 during the first 2 seconds after it starts after which = 0. The angular
velocity after 6 sec will be -
(A) 10/3 rad/sec (B) 3/10 rad/sec (C) 30/4 rad/sec (D) 4/30 rad/sec
Sol.(A) Given  = 3t – t2
d
 = 3t – t2
dt
 d = (3t – t2)dt
3t 2 t3
  =  c
2 3
at t = 0,  = 0

3t 2 t3
 c = 0,  = 
2 3
Angular velocity at

3 8 10
t = 2 sec, t = 2 sec = ( 4 )  = rad/sec
2 3 3
Since there is no angular acceleration after 2 sec
 The angular velocity after 6 sec remains the same.
Hence correct answer is (A)

6. CENTRIPETAL ACCELERATION AND CENTRIPETAL FORCE

(i) A body or particle moving in a curved path always moves effectively in a circle at any instant.

(ii) The velocity of the particle changes moving on the curved path, this change in velocity is brought by a
force known as centripetal force and the acceleration so produced in the body is known as centripetal
acceleration.

(iii) The direction of centripetal force or acceleration is always towards the centre of circular path.
6.1 Expression for Centripetal Acceleration

v2

P2(t + t) – v1 
v2
r 
O  v1

v
P1(t)

fig. (a)Particle moving in circular path of radius r & fig. (b) Vector diagram of velocities
The triangle OP1P2 and the velocity triangle are similar
P1P2 AB
 =
P1O AQ
s v  
 = [| v1 | = | v 2 | = v]
r v
v
 v = s
r
v v s
 =
t r t

 lim v v lim  s  
v v2
= r2
t 0 t = r t 0  t  ac =
r
v =
r
This is the magnitude of centripetal acceleration of particle
(i) It is a vector quantity. In vector form
  
ac =  v
 
(ii) The direction of ac would be the same as that of  v
(iii) Because velocity vector at any point is tangential to the circular path at that point, the acceleration vector
acts along radius of the circle at that point and is directed towards the centre. This is the reason that
it is called centripetal acceleration.
Ex.10 A ball is fixed to the end of a string and is rotated in a horizontal circle of radius 5 m with a speed of
10 m/sec. The acceleration of the ball will be -
(A) 20 m/s2 (B) 10 m/s2 (C) 30 m/s2 (D) 40 m/s2
v2
Sol.(A) We know a =
r
Hence v = 10 m/s, r = 5 m
(10 )2
 a = = 20 m/s2
5
Hence correct answer is (A)
Ex.11 A body of mass 2 kg lying on a smooth surface is attached to a string 3 m long and then whirled round
in a horizontal circle making 60 revolution per minute. The centripetal acceleration will be -
(A) 118.4 m/s2 (B)1.18 m/s2 (C) 2.368 m/s2 (D) 23.68 m/s2
Sol.(A) Given that the mass of the particle,
m = 2 kg
radius of circle = 3 m
60  2
Angular velocity = 60 rev/minute = rad/sec = 2 rad/sec
60
Because the angle described during 1 revolution is 2 radian
The linear velocity
v = r
= 2 × 3 m/s = 6 m/s
 v2 ( 6 )2
The centripetal acceleration = = m/s2 = 118.4 m/s2
r 3
Hence correct answer is (A)
6.2 Expression for Centripetal force
If v = velocity of particle, r = radius of path
A
Then necessary centripetal force
r
Fc = mass × acceleration O
v2
Fc = m
r
This is the expression for centripetal force

(i) It is a vector quantity v

(ii) In vector form  v
2 2 Fc
 mv mv   
Fc = – . r̂ = – 2 r Fc Fc
r r 
 Fc
2
= – m2r r̂ = –m r = – m ( v × 

v
) 
negative sign indicates direction only v
  
| Fc | = m ( v ×  )
(iii) For circular motion :

| Fc | = m (v  sin 90º) = mv
Note :
1. Centripetal force is not a real force. It is only the requirement for circular motion.
2. It is not a new kind of force. Any of the forces found in nature such as gravitational force, electric friction
force, tension in string reaction force may act as centripetal force.
Ex.12 A body of mass 0.1 kg is moving on circular path of diameter 1.0 m at the rate of 10 revolutionsper 31.4
seconds. The centripetal force acting on the body is -
(A) 0.2 N (B) 0.4 N (C) 2 N (D) 4 N

mv 2
Sol.(A) F = = mr2
r
Here m = 0.10 kg,
r = 0.5 m
2n 2  3.14  10
and  = = = 2 rad/s
t 31.4
2
F = 0.10 × 0.5 × (2) = 0.2
Hence correct answer is (A)
Ex.13 A body of mass 4 kg is moving in a horizontal circle of radius 1 m with an angular velocity of 2 rad/s.
The required centripetal force, will be -
(A) 16 N (B) 1.6 N (C) 16 Dyne (D) 1.6 Dyne
Sol.(A) F = mr2= 4 × 1 × 22 = 16 N
Hence correct answer is (A)
Ex.14 The safe velocity required for scooterist negotiating a curve of radius 200 m on a road with the angle
of repose of tan–1(0.2) will be-
(A) 20 km/hr (B) 200 m/s (C) 72 km/hr (D) 72 m/s
Sol.(C) As the centripetal force is supplied by the frictional force, hence
mv 2 v2
 mg =  0.2 =
r 200  10
 = tan–1 (0.2) = tan –1 ()   = (0.2)]  v = 20 m/s
18
The safe speed is 20 × = 72 km/hr
5
Hence correct answer is (C)
Ex.15 A body of mass 4 kg is tied to one end of a rope of length 40 cm and whirled in a horizontal circle. The
maximum number of revolutions per minute it can be whirled so that the rope does not snap as the rope
can with stand to a tension of 6.4 Newton, will be -
(A) 1.91 (B) 19.1 (C) 191 (D) 1910
Sol.(B) Tension in the rope = mr2 = mr 42n2
Maximum tension = 6.4 N
 6.4 = 4 × 0.4 × 4 × 2n2
 Number of revolutions per minutes = 60/= 19.1
Hence correct answer is (B)
Ex.16 A certain string which is 1 m long will break, if the load on it is more than 0.5 kg. A mass of 0.05 kg
is attached to one end of it and the particle is whirled round a horizontal circle by holding the free end
of the string by one hand. The greatest number of revolutions per minute possible without breaking the
string will be-
(A) 9.45 (B) 94.5 (C) 99.5 (D) 9.95
Sol.(B) Mass of the body m = 0.05 kg ,
Radius of circular path = 1 m
The maximum tension in the string can withstand = 0.5 kg wt = 0.5 × 9.8 N = 4.9 N
Hence the centripetal force required to produce the maximum tension in the string is 4.9 N
4.9 4.9 98
i.e. mr2 = 4.9  2 = = 0.05  1 = 98   = 98  n = 98  n =
mr 2
= 1.1576 rev/sec = 94.5 rev/min
Hence correct answer is (B)

7. TYPE OF CIRCULAR MOTION

7.1 Uniform circular motion 
v2

7.2 Non Uniform Circular Motion : v1
7.1 Uniform Circular Motion :
If m = mass of body,
r = radius of circular orbit,

v = magnitude of velocity v3
ac = centripetal acceleration,
at = tangential acceleration
ac
In uniform circular motion :
at = 0
  
(i) | v1 | = | v 2 | = | v 3 | = constant
i.e. speed is constant Fc

Ft = 0

(ii) As | v | is constant
so tangential acceleration
at = 0

(iii) Tangential force Ft = 0

(iv) Total acceleration

v2
a = a c2  a t 2 = ac = (towards the centre)
r
Note:
(i) Because Fc is always perpendicular to velocity or displacement, hence the work done by this force will
always be zero.
(ii) Circular motion in horizontal plane is usually uniform circular motion.
(iii) There is an important difference between the projectile motion and circular motion.
In projectile motion, both the magnitude and the direction of acceleration (g) remain constant, while in
circular motion the magnitude remains constant but the direction continuously changes.
Hence equations of motion are not applicable for circular motion.
Remember that equations of motion remain valid only when both the magnitude & direction of acceleration
are constant.
7.1.1 Hint to solve numerical problem :
(i) Write down the required centripetal force
(ii) Draw the free body diagram of each component of system.
(iii) Resolve the forces acting on the rotating particle along radius and perpendicular to radius
(iv) Calculate net radial force acting towards centre of circular path.
(v) Make it equal to required centripetal force.
(vi) For remaining components see according to question.
Ex.17 A body of mass m is attached with a string of length l. If it is whirled in a horizontal circular path with
velocity v. The tension in the string will be -
mv 2 m mv 2
(A) mv2l (B) (C) (D)
 v2 2
Sol.(B) Required centripetal force ,
mv 2
Fc =

Here centripetal force is provided by the tension in the string

mv 2

T
m 

mv 2 mg
T = Fc =

Hence correct answer is (B)

Ex.18 A satellite of mass m is revolving around the earth of mass M in circular orbit of radius r. The orbital
velocity of the satellite will be -

GM Gm GM Gm
(A) (B) (C) (D)
r r mr Mr
Sol. The required centripetal force,
mv 2
FC =
r
(towards the centre) v 
Net force towards the centre, FG
GMm O
FG =
r2
(This force will provide required centripetal force)
Therefore FC = FG
mv 2 GMm
 =
r r2
 GM
 v=
r
Hence correct answer is (A)
Note :
(i) From above example we see that orbital velocity of a body is independent to its mass
(ii) If we are asked to find out time period of above body then time period can be calculated as

2r r3
T = = 2
v GM
2 3
T  r this is Kepler's law.
Ex.19 Three identical particles are connected by three strings as shown in fig. These particles are revolving in
a horizontal plane. The velocity of outer most particle is v. Then T 1 : T 2 : T 3 will be - (Where T 1 is tension
in the outer most string etc.)

m m m
O
l l l

(A) 3 : 5 : 7 (B) 3 : 5 : 6 (C) 3 : 4 : 5 (D) 7 : 5 : 3

Sol.(B) For A : vA
vc vB

O B
T3 C T2 T1 A

mvA2
Required centripetal force =
3
(net force towards centre = T 1)
mvA2
This will provide required centripetal force particle at A,  T1 =
3
For B :

m(vB2 )
Required centripetal force =
2
Remember  i.e. angular velocity, of all the particles is same
vA vB vC
  = = =
3 2 
Note:
When a system of particles rotates about an axis, the angular velocity of all the particles will be same, but
their linear velocity will be different, because of different distances from axis of rotation i.e. v = r.
2mv 2A
Thus for B, centripetal force =
9
Net force towards the centre
2mv 2A
T2 – T1 =
9

2mv 2A 5mv 2A
 T2 = + T1 =
9 9
 (Putting value of T 1)
For C :

mvC2 mvA2
Centripetal force. =
3 9
Net force towards centre = T 3 – T2

mvA2
 T3 – T2 =
9

mvA2
 T3 = + T2
9

6mvA2
T3 =
9
(on putting value of T2)

1 5 6
Now T 1 : T 2 : T3 = : : = 3 : 5 : 6
3 9 9

Note:
It is to be pondered from the above example that as the velocity is increased continuously, the innermost string
will break first i.e. T 3 > T 2 > T 1
Hence correct answer is (B)

7.1.2 Motion In Horizontal Circle : Conical pendulum

This is the best example of uniform circular motion
A conical pendulum consists of a body attached to a string, such that it can revolve in a horizontal circle with
uniform speed. The string traces out a cone in the space.
(i) The force acting on the bob are
(a) Tension T (b) weight mg

(ii) The horizontal component T sin  of the tension T provides the centripetal force and the vertical component
T cos  balances the weight of bob
mv 2
 T sin  =
r
and T cos  = mg
From these equation

v4 v2
T = mg 1 ....(i) and tan  = ....(ii)
r 2 g2 rg
OP r
Also if h = height of conical pendulum tan  = = ....(iii)
OS h
From (ii) & (iii),
 v2 g
 2 = 2 =
r h
The time period of revolution

h cos 
T = 2 = 2
g g

[where OS = l]
Ex.20 A particle describes a horizontal circle on the smooth surface of an inverted cone. The height of the plane
of the circle above the vertex is 9.8 cm. The speed of the particle will be -

(A) 9.8 m/s (B) 0.98 m/s (C) 0.098 m/s (D) 98 m/s
Sol.(B) The force acting on particle are
(i) weight mg acting vertically downward
(ii) Normal reaction N of the smooth surface of the cone.
mv 2
(iii) Reaction of the centripetal force acting radially outwards.
r
Resolving N into horizontal and vertical components we obtain
mv 2
N cos  = and N sin  = mg
r
N sin  mg
 =
N cos  mv 2 / r
rg
 tan  = 2
v
r
But tan  =
h
r rg
 = 2
h v
 v= hg = 9.8  9.8  10 2 = 0.98 m/s
Hence correct answer is (B)
7.2 Non-uniform Circular Motion :
(i) In non-uniform circular motion :

| v |  constant   constant
i.e. speed  constant
i.e. angular velocity  constant

(ii) If at any instant

v = magnitude of velocity of particle
r = radius of circular path
 = angular velocity of particle,
then v = r
(iii) Tangential acceleration :

dv
at =
dt
ds
where v= and s = arc - length
dt
(iv) Tangential force :
Ft = mat
 (v) Centripetal force :

mv 2
Fc = = m2r
r
(vi) Net force on the particle :
  
F = Fc + F t  F = Fc2  Ft 2

If  is the angle made by [Note angle between F c and Ft is 90º], F with Fc, then

Ft  Ft 
tan  =    = tan–1  
Fc  Fc 
Angle between F & Ft is (90º – )

(vii) Net acceleration towards the centre = centripetal acceleration

v2 Fc
 ac = = 2r =
r m
Fnet
(viii) Net acceleration, a = a c2  a 2t =
m
at Ft
The angle made by 'a' with ac, tan  = =
ac Fc

ac
ac 

at
8. MOTION IN A VERTICAL CIRCLE :
Let us consider the motion of a point mass tied to a string of
length  and whirled in a vertical circle. If at any time the body
is at angular position , as shown in the figure, the forces
acting on it are tension T in the string along the radius towards
the center and the weight of the body mg acting vertically
down wards.
Applying Newton’s law along radial direction
mv 2
T – mg cos  = m.ar =

mv 2
or T= + mg cos  .....(1)

 The point mass will complete the circle only and only if tension is never zero (except momentarily, if at all) if
tension becomes zero at any point, string will go slack and subsequently, the only force acting on the body is
gravity. Hence its subsequent motion will be similar to that of a projectile.
From equation ...(1), it is evident that tension decreases with increase in  because cos  is a decreasing
function and v decreases with height. Hence tension is minimum at the top most point. i.e. T min = Ttopmost.
T > 0 at all points.  Tmin > 0.
However if tension is momentarily zero at highest point the body would still be able to complete the circle.
Hence condition for completing the circle (or looping the loop) is T min  0 or Ttop  0.

mv 2top
Ttop + mg = ...............(2)

Equation...(2) could also be obtained by putting  =  in equation ..(1).
For looping the loop, Ttop  0.

mv 2top
  mg  vtop  g .................(3)


Condition for looping the loop is vtop  g .

If speed at the lowest point is u, then from conservation of mechanical energy between lowest point and top most
point.

1 1
mu2 = m v 2top + mg . 2
2 2
using equation ..(3) for vtop we get

u 5g 

i.e., for looping the loop, velocity at lowest point must be  5g  .

 If velocity at lowest point is just enough for looping the loop, value of various quantities. (True for a point mass
attached to a string or a mass moving on a smooth vertical circular track.)

P.E. = 0

By energy conservation, v =
2
T–mg =
could also be obtained by

anet = 5 g anet = g 10
 C
v by energy conservation

aC  
T=0
O aC = g
Ref.line at = 0 anet = g

Fig. (3)

by energy conservation
+

A B,D C P(general po int)

1 Velocity 5g 3g g g(3  2 cos )
2 Tension 6mg 3mg 0 3mg(1  cos )
3 Potential Energy 0 mg 2mg mg(1  cos )
4 Radial acceleration 5g 3g g g(3  2 cos )
5 Tangential acceleration 0 g 0 g sin 

Note :- From above table we can see , Tbottom – Ttop = TC – TA = 6 mg , this difference in tension remain same even

if V > 5g

Ex.21 Find minimum speed at A so that the ball can reach at point B as shown in figure. Also discuss the motion of
particle when T = 0, v = 0 simultaneously at  = 90º.

Sol. From energy conservation

1
mv 2A + 0 = 0 + mg (for minimum speed vB = 0)
2
vmin = 2 g
at the position B, v = 0 and T = 0 (putting vB = 0 or  = 90º , in equation ............(1) )
ball will return back, motion is oscillatory
8.1. CONDITION FOR OSCILLATION OR LEAVING THE CIRCLE :
In case of non uniform circular motion in a vertical plane if velocity of body at

lowest point is lesser than 5g , the particle will not complete the circle in
vertical plane. In this case, the motion of the point mass which depend on
‘whether tension becomes zero before speed becomes zero or vice versa.

Case  (Speed becomes zero before tension)

In this case the ball never rises above the level of the center O i.e. the body is
confined to move within C and B, ( |  | < 90° ) for this the speed at A,

v< 2g (as proved in above example)

In this case tension cannot be zero, since a component of gravity acts radially
outwards.
Hence the string will not go slack, and the ball will reverse back as soon as its
speed becomes zero.
Its motion will be oscillatory motion.
Case  (Tension becomes zero before speed)

In this case the ball rises above the level of center O i.e. it goes beyond point B ( > 90°) for this v > 2g (as
proved in above example)
In this case a component of gravity will always act towards center,
hence centripetal acceleration or speed will remain nonzero. Hence
tension becomes zero first.
As soon as, Tension becomes zero at any point, string will go slack
and subsequently, the only force acting on the body is
gravity. Hence its subsequent motion will be similar to that of a
projectile. In this case motion is a combination of circular and projec-
tile motion.

9.2 CONDITION FOR LOOPING THE LOOP IN SOME OTHER CASES

Case 1 : A mass moving on a smooth vertical circular track.

Case 2 : A particle attached to a light rod rotated in vertical circle.

Condition for just looping the loop, velocity v = 0 at highest point (even if tension is zero, rod won’t slack, and
a compressive force can appear in the rod).
By energy conservation,
velocity at lowest point = 4g

Vmin  4 g  (for completing the circle)

Case 3 : A bead attached to a ring and rotated.
Condition for just looping the loop, velocity v = 0 at highest point (even if normal is zero, the bead will not lose
contact with the track, normal can act radially outward).
By energy conservation,
velocity at lowest point = 4g

Vmin  4g (for completing the circle)

Case 4 : A block rotated between smooth surfaces of a pipe.

Condition for just looping the loop, velocity v = 0 at highest point (even if normal is zero, the bead will not lose
contact with the track, normal can act radially outward).
By energy conservation,
velocity at lowest point = 4g

Vmin  4g (for completing the circle)

Ex.22 If a particle of mass M is tied to a light inextensible string fixed at point P

and particle is projected at A with velocity VA= 4gL as shown. Find :
(i) velocity at points B and C
(ii) tension in the string at B and C
Assume particle is projected in the vertical plane.
Ans. VB = 2gL (from energy conservation)

VC = 6gL
TB = Mg
TC = 7Mg (where M  Mass of the particle)

Ex.23 A body weighing 0.4 kg is whirled in a vertical circle with a string making 2 revolutions per second. If the radius
of the circle is 1.2 m. Find the tension (a) at the top of the circle, (b) at the bottom of the circle.
Given : g = 10 m s–2 and  = 3.14.
Solution :
Mass, m = 0.4 kg;
1
time period = second, radius, r = 1.2 m
2
2
Angular velocity,  = = 4 rad s–1 = 12.56 rad s–1 .
1/ 2

mv 2
(a) At the top of the circle, T = – mg = mr2 – mg = m(r2 – g)
r
= 0.4 (1.2 × 12.56 × 12.56 – 9.8) N = 71.2 N
(b) At the lowest point, T = m(r2 + g) = 80 N

Ex.24 Two point mass m are connected the light rod of length  and it is free to rotate in
vertical plane as shown. Calculate the minimum horizontal velocity is given to mass
so that it completes the circular motion in vertical lane.

Solution :
Here tension in the rod at the top most point of circle can be zero or negative for completing the loop. So velocity
at the top most point is zero.
From energy conservation
 2
1 1 v
mv 2 + m = mg(2) + mg(4) + 0
2 2 4

48g
 v= Ans.
5
Ex.25 You may have seen in a circus a motorcyclist driving in vertical loops inside a ‘death well’ (a hollow spherical
chamber with holes, so that the cyclist does not drop down when he is at the uppermost point, with no support
from below. What is the minimum speed required at the uppermost position to perform a vertical loop if the radius
of the chamber is 25 m?
Solution :
When the motorcyclist is at the highest point of the death-well, the normal reaction R on the motorcyclist by the
ceiling of the chamber acts downwards. His weight mg also act downwards.
Fnet = mac

mv 2
 R + mg =
r
Here v is the speed of the motorcyclist and m is the mass of the motorcyclist (including the mass of the motor
cycle). Because of the balancing of the forces, the motorcyclist does not fall down.
The minimum speed required to perform a vertical loop is given by equation (1) when R = 0.
2
mv min
 mg = or v2min = gr
r

or vmin = gr = 9.8  25 m s–1 = 15.65 ms–1 .

So, the minimum speed, at the top, required to perform a vertical loop is 15.65 m s –1 .

Ex.26 Prove that a motor car moving over a convex bridge is lighter than the same car resting on the same bridge.
Solution :
The motion of the motor car over a convex bridge AB is the motion along the
segment of a circle AB (Figure) ;
R
The centripetal force is provided by the difference of weight mg of the car and
the normal reaction R of the bridge.
mg
mv 2 mv 2 A B
 mg – R = or R = mg –
r r
Clearly R < mg, i.e., the weight of the moving car is less
than the weight of the stationary car.

Ex.27 Prove that a motor car moving over a concave bridge is heavier than the same car resting on the same bridge.
Solution :
The motion of the motor car over a concave bridge AB is the motion along the
segment of a circle AB (Figure) ;
The centripetal force is provided by the difference of normal reaction R of
R B
the bridge and weight mg of the car. A

mv 2 mv 2
 R – mg = or R = mg + mg
r r
Clearly R > mg, i.e., the weight of the moving car is greater
than the weight of the stationary car.

Ex.28 A car is moving with uniform speed over a circular bridge of radius R which subtends an angle. of 90° at its centre.
Find the minimum possible speed so that the car can cross the bridge without losing the contact any where.
Solution :
Let the car losses the contact at angle  with the vertical
 mv 2
mgcos – N =
R

mv 2
N = mgcos – .......... (1)
R
for losing the contact N = 0 ,
 v= Rg cos  (from (1) )
for minimum speed, cos should be minimum so that  should be maximum.
1
max = 45°  cos 45° =
2

1/ 2
 Rg 
vmin =   Ans.
 2
So that if car cannot lose the contact at initial or final point, car cannot be lose the contact anywhere.

Ex.29 A simple pendulum is constructed by attaching a bob of mass m to a string of length L fixed at its upper end. The
bob oscillates in a vertical circle. It is found that the speed of the bob is v when the string makes an angle  with
the vertical. Find the tension in the string and the magnitude of net force on the bob at the instant.
Solution :
(i) The forces acting on the bob are :
/////////////
(a) the tension T
(b) the weight mg 

As the bob moves in a circle of radius L with centre at O. A centripetal

T
mv 2
force of magnitude is required towards O. This force will be pro-
L 
mg sin  mg cos 
mg
vided by the resultant of T and mg cos . Thus,

 2 
mv 2  g cos   v 
or T – mg cos  = T = m L 
L 

2
 v2 
(ii) anet = a 2t  ar2 = g sin 
2

 


 

 2 2 v4
| Fnet | = ma = m g sin   Ans.
net
L2

Ex.30 A particle in projected with velocity 3gL at point A (lowest point of the circle) in the
vertical plane. Find the maximum height about horizontal level of point A if the string
slacks at the point B as shown.

Solution :
As tension at B ; T = 0
2
mv B
 mgcos  =
L

 vB = gL cos  ......... (1)

Now by equation of energy between A and B.
 1 1 2
0+ m 3gL = mv B + mgL (1+cos )
2 2
put vB
1
 cos  =
3
 height attend by particle after the point B where the string slacks is ;

v B2 sin2  gL cos (1  cos 2 ) 4L

h’ = = =
2g 2g 27
 Maximum height about point A is given by ;
Hmax = L + Lcos  + h’
L 4L 40 L
=L+ + =
3 27 27

9. CIRCULAR TURNING ON ROADS :

(i) Motion of a cyclist on a circular path : Let a cyclist moving on a circular path of radius r bend
away from the vertical by an angle  .
R is the contact force from the ground which is the resultant
of normal reaction and friction force. It can be resolved in Rcos R
the horizontal and vertical directions. The components
Vertical
are respectively equal to R sin  and R cos  . The vertical 2

component balances his weight m g. The horizontal Rsinmv

r
component R sin  supplies the necessary force for making
the circular path. 
mg
m v2
 R sin  = Horizontal
r
R cos  = mg
v2
 tan  =
rg
For less bending of the cyclist , v should be small and r should be great.
(ii) Banking of Roads : Acceleration of a body moving in a circle of radius R with uniform speed v is
v2/R directed towards the centre is called centripetal acceleration. The force f providing this acceleration
is
mv 2
f
R
where m is the mass of the body .
The circular motion of a car on a flat and a banked road are interesting applications of the laws of motion.
For the case of circular motion on a flat road.
mv2
f  s N  vmax = s Rg
R
We can reduce the contribution of friction to the circular motion of the car if the road is banked. Since again
there is no acceleration in the vertical direction.
N cos  = mg + f sin 
The centripetal force is provided by the components of N and f.
 mv 2
N sin  + f cos  =
R
N 

N
R a=v2/R

O a=v2/R speed=v f mg
f 

mg
where, as before, f  s N
  tan 
These equation give v2  R g
1   tan 
f
where    s
N
The maximum circular speed of the car possible on a banked road is, therefore.
1/ 2
   tan  
vmax   Rg s 
 1  s tan  

(iii) Overturning and Skidding of cars : When a car takes a turn round a bend, whether the car tends to
skid or topple depends on different factors. let us consider the case of a car whose wheels are “2 a”
metre apart and whose centre of gravity is “h” metres above the ground. Let the co-efficient of friction
between the wheels and the ground be .
Figure represents the forces on the car :
(a) The weight Mg of the car acts vertically downwards through the centre of gravity G of the
car.

(b) The normal reactions of the ground R1 and R2 act vertically upwards on the inner and outer
wheels respectively.
(c) The force of friction F between the wheels and the ground act towards the centre of the circle
of which the road forms a part.
Let the radius of the circular path be r , and the speed of the car be v.
Considering the vertical forces, since there is no vertical acceleration,
R1 + R2 = Mg ........ (i)
The horizontal force F provides the centripetal force for motion in a circle
Mv 2
 F= ........ (ii)
r
Taking moments about G , if there is to be no resultant turning effect about the centre of gravity ,
Fh + R1a = R2a ........ (iii)
Conditions for no skidding
From equation (ii) it is seen that as the speed increases , the force required to keep the car moving in
the circle also increases. However, there is a limit to the frictional force F, because
Fmax =  (R1 + R2)
Substituting from equation (i)
Fmax =  Mg
Substituting from equation (ii)
M v2
=  Mg
r
 v2 =  r g or v = rg
This expression gives the maximum speed v with which the car could take the circular path without
skidding.
Conditions for no overturning
From equation (iii)
(R2 - R1) a = F h
Fh M v2 h
or (R2 - R1) = = . ...... (iv)
a r a
But R2 + R1 = Mg

M v2 h
Adding , 2 R2 = Mg + . ...... (v)
r a

 v 2 h 

2 R2 = M  g 
 r a 

 2 
R2 =
1
M g  v h  ...... (vi)
2  r a 

Substituting for R2 in equation (iv)
 2  2
1
R2 - R1 = M g  v h  - R = M v h
2  r a  1
ra


 2  2  2 2 
1
R1 = M g  v h  - M v h = 1 M g  v h  2 v h 
2  r a  ra 2  ra r a 
 
 2 
1
= M g  v h  ..... (vii)
2  r a 

Equation (vi) shows that the reaction R2 is always positive. However, equation (vii) shows that as the
v2h
speed “v” increases, the reaction R1 decreases and when = g, R1 becomes zero. This means that
ra
the inner wheel is no longer in contact with the ground and the car commences to overturn outwards.
The maximum speed without overturning is given by
 v2h gra
g= v=
ra h
The same expression applies also to the case of a train moving on rails in a circular path of radius “r”.
Here 2 a is the distance between the rails and “h” the height of the centre of gravity above the rails.
Illustration 20
dv
A car goes on a horizontal circular road of radius R, the speed increasing at a rate = a. The friction
dt
co-efficient between road and tyre is . Find the speed at which the car will skid.
Solution
Here at any time t , the speed of car becomes V, the net acceleration in the plane of road is
2
 v2 
   a 2 . This acceleration is provided by frictional force. At the moment car will slide
R
 
2
 v2 
M    a =  Mg
2
  
v = R 2 2 g 2  a 2 1/ 4

R

10. CENTRIFUGAL FORCE :

When a body is rotating in a circular path and the centripetal force vanishes, the body would leave the circular
path. To an observer A who is not sharing the motion along the circular path, the body appears to fly off tangen-
tially at the point of release. To another observer B, who is sharing the motion along the circular path (i.e., the
observer B is also rotating with the body which is released, it appears to B, as if it has been thrown off along the
radius away from the centre by some force. This inertial force is called centrifugal force.)

mv 2
Its magnitude is equal to that of the centripetal force. = = m2r
r
Direction of cetrifugal force, it is always directed radially outward.

Centrifugal force is a fictitious force which has to be applied as a concept only in a rotating frame of reference to
apply Newton’s law of motion in that frame. FBD of ball w.r.t. non inertial frame rotating with the ball.
Suppose we are working from a frame of reference that is rotating at a constant, angular velocity  with respect
to an inertial frame. If we analyses the dynamics of a particle of mass m kept at a distance r from the axis of
rotation, we have to assume that a force mr2 react radially outward on the particle. Only then we can apply
Newton’s laws of motion in the rotating frame. This radially outward pseudo force is called the centrifugal force.
 EXERCISE 81
1. Two racing cars of masses m 1 and m 2 are moving in circles of radii r 1 and r 2 respectively ; their speeds
are such that they each make a complete circle in the same time t. The ratio of the angular speed of
the first to the second car is :
(A) m 1 : m 2 (B) r 1 : r 2 (C) 1 : 1 (D) m 1r1 : m 2r2

2. A wheel is at rest. Its angular velocity increases uniformly and becomes 80 radian per second after 5 second.
The total angular displacement is :
(A) 800 rad (B) 400 rad (C) 200 rad (D) 100 rad
 20 
3. A particle moves along a circle of radius   m with constant tangential acceleration. If the speed of the
  
particle is 80 m/s at the end of the second revolution after motion has begun, the tangential acceleration is:
(A) 160  m/s2 (B) 40  m/s2 (C) 40 m/s2 (D) 640  m/s2
4. When a particle moves in a circle with a uniform speed
(A) its velocity and acceleration are both constant
(B) its velocity is constant but the acceleration changes
(C) its acceleration is constant but the velocity changes
(D) its velocity and acceleration both change

5. An object follows a curved path. The following quantities may remain constant during the motion
(A) speed (B) velocity (C) acceleration (D) magnitude of acceleration

6. Assume that the earth goes round the sun in a circular orbit with a constant speed of 30 km/s.
(A) The average velocity of the earth during first 6 months of the year is zero
(B) The average speed of the earth during a period of 1 year is zero.
(C) The average acceleration during the above period is zero
(D) The instantaneous acceleration of the earth points towards the sun.

7. Two particles P and Q are located at distances rP and rQ respectively from the axis of a rotating disc
such that r P > rQ :
(A) Both P and Q have the same acceleration (B) Both P and Q do not have any acceleration
(C) P has greater acceleration than Q (D) Q has greater acceleration than P

8. Let ar and at represent radial and tangential acceleration. The motion of a particle may be circular if :
(A) ar = 0, at = 0 (B) ar = 0, at  0 (C) ar  0, at = 0 (D) none of these

9. The second’s hand of a watch has length 6 cm. Speed of end point and magnitude of difference of
velocities at two perpendicular positions will be :
(A) 2 & 0 mm/s (B) 2 2  & 4.44 mm/s
(C) 2 2  & 2 mm/s (D) 2 & 2 2  mm/s

10. A particle is going in a uniform helical and spiral path separately as shown
in figure with constant speed.
(A) The velocity of the particle is constant in both cases
(B) The acceleration of the particle is constant in both cases
(C) The magnitude of accleration is constant in (a) and decreasing in (b) (b)
(D) The magnitude of accleration is decreasing continuously in both the cases

11. A stone is projected with speed u and angle of projection is . Find radius of curvature at t = 0.
u sin  u cos  u2 cos 2  u2 sin2 
(A) g (B) g (C) (D)
g g
  
12. A particle of mass m is moving with constant velocity v on smooth horizontal surface. A constant force F
starts acting on particle perpendicular to velocity v. Radius of curvature after force F start acting is :

mv 2 mv 2 mv 2
(A) (B) (C) (D) none of these
F F cos  F sin 

13. If the radii of circular paths of two particles of same masses are in the ratio of 1 : 2, then in order to have same
centripetal force, their speeds should be in the ratio of :
(A) 1 : 4 (B) 4 : 1 (C) 1 :
2 (D) 2 : 1
14. A stone of mass of 16 kg is attached to a string 144 m long and is whirled in a horizontal smooth
surface. The maximum tension the string can withstand is 16 newton. The maximum speed of revolution
of the stone without breaking it, will be :
(A) 20 ms–1 (B) 16 ms–1 (C) 14 ms–1 (D) 12 ms–1

15. A mass of 2 kg is whirled in a horizontal circle by means of a string at an initial speed of 5 revolutions
per minute. Keeping the radius constant the tension in the string is doubled. The new speed is nearly:
(A) 14 rpm (B) 10 rpm (C) 2.25 rpm (D) 7 rpm

16. A particle is kept fixed on a turntable rotating uniformly. As seen from the ground , the particle goes in a circle
, its speed is 20 cm/s and acceleration is 20 cm/s2.The particle is now shifted to a new position to make the
radius half of the original value.The new values of the speed and acceleration will be
(A) 10 cm/s, 10 cm/s2 (B) 10 cm/s, 80 cm/s2 (C) 40 cm/s, 10 cm/s2 (D) 40 cm/s,40 cm/s2

17. A coin placed on a rotating turntable just slips if it is placed at a distance of 4 cm from the centre. If the
angular velocity of the turntable is doubled , it will just slip at a distance of
(A) 1 cm (B) 2 cm (C) 4 cm (D) 8 cm

18. A rod of length L is pivoted at one end and is rotated with a uniform angular velocity in a horizontal plane . Let
T1 and T2 be the tensions at the points L/4 and 3L/4 away from the pivoted ends.
(A) T1 > T2
(B) T2 > T1
(C) T1 = T2
(D) The relation between T1 and T2 depends on whether the rod rotates clockwise or anticlockwise

19. A particle moving along a circular path due to a centripetal force having constant magnitude is an example of
motion with :
(A) constant speed and velocity (B) variable speed and velocity
(C) variable speed and constant velocity (D) constant speed and variable velocity.

20. A motorcycle is going on an overbridge of radius R. The driver maintains a constant speed. As the
motorcycle is ascending on the overbridge, the normal force on it :
(A) increase (B) decreases
(C) remains constant (D) first increases then decreases.

21. In a circus, stuntman rides a motorbike in a circular track of radius R in the vertical plane. The minimum
speed at highest point of track will be :
(A) 2 gR (B) 2gR (C) 3 gR (D) gR

22. A particle is moving in a vertical circle. The tensions in the string when passing through two positions
at angles 30° and 60° from vertical (lowest positions) are T 1 and T 2 respectively. Then
(A) T 1 = T 2 (B) T 2 > T 1
(C) T 1 > T 2
(D) Tension in the string always remains the same

23. A stone tied to a string is rotated in a vertical plane. If mass of the stone is m, the length of the string is r and
the linear speed of the stone is v when the stone is at its lowest point, then the tension in the string at the
lowest point will be :
mv 2 mv 2 mv 2
(A)  mg (B)  mg (C) (D) mg
r r r
24. A car moves at a constant speed on a road as shown in A B
figure. The normal force by the road on the car is NA and
NB when it is at the points A and B respectively.

(A) NA = NB (B) NA > NB (C) NA < NB (D) insufficient

25. Water in a bucket is whirled in a vertical circle with a string attached to it.The water does not fall down even
when the bucket is inverted at the top of its path. We conclude that in this position.
mv 2 mv 2
(A) mg = (B) mg is greater than
r r

mv 2 mv 2
(C) mg is not greater than (D) mg is not less than
r r

26. A car moving on a horizontal road may be thrown out of the road in taking a turn :
(A) By the gravitational force
(B) Due to lack of sufficient centripetal force
(C) Due to friction between road and the tyre
(D) Due to reaction of earth

27. A curved section of a road is banked for a speed v. If there is no friction between road and tyres of the car,
then:
(A) car is more likely to slip at speeds higher than v than speeds lower than v
(B) car cannot remain in static equilibrium on the curved section
(C) car will not slip when moving with speed v
(D) none of the above
28. A train A runs from east to west and another train B of the same mass runs from west to east at the same
speed along the equator. A presses the track with a force F1 and B presses the track with a force F2.
(A) F1 > F2
(B) F1 < F2
(C) F1= F2
(D) the information is insufficient to find the relation between F1 and F2.
29. A circular road of radius r is banked for a speed v = 40 km/hr. A car of mass attempts to go on the circular
road. The friction coefficient between the tyre and the road is negligible.
(A) The car cannot make a turn without skidding.
(B) If the car turns at a speed less than 40 km/hr, it will slip down

mv 2
(C) If the car turns at the constant speed of 40 km/hr, the force by the road on the car is equal to
r
(D) If the car turns at the correct speed of 40 km/hr, the force by the road on the car is greater than mg as

mv 2
well as greater than
r
 E X E R C IS E 2
1. A particle is moving along a circular path of radius 5 m with a uniform speed 5 ms –1. What is the magnitude
of average acceleration during the interval in which particle completes half revolution?

2. A particle moves clockwise in a circle of radius 1 m with centre at (x, y) = (1m, 0). It starts at rest at the origin

at time t = 0. Its speed increases at the constant rate of   m/s2.
2
(a) How long does it take to travel halfway around the circle?
(b) What is the speed at that time?
(c) What is the net acceleration at that time ?

3. Figure shows the direction of total acceleration and velocity of a particle

moving clockwise in a circle of radius 2.5 m at a given instant of time. At

m
5
this instant if magnitude of net acceleration is 25 m/sec 2 , find :

2.
30º a v
(a) the radial acceleration,
(b) the speed of the particle and
(c) its tangential acceleration

4. Two particle A and B move anticlockwise with the same speed v in a circle of radius R and are diametrically
72v 2
opposite to each other. At t = 0, A is imparted a tangential acceleration of constant magnitude at = .
25 R
Calculate the time in which A collides with B, the angle traced by A during this time , its angular velocity and
radial acceleration at the time of collision.
5. A solid body at time t = 0 starts rotating about fixed axis with a time dependent angular acceleration
given by  = kt where k is constant. For an arbitrary point of the body, calculate the time taken for its
total acceleration vector to be at angle  with its linear velocity vector.

6. A block of mass ‘m’ moves on a horizontal circle against the wall of a cylindrical room of radius R. The
floor of the room on which the block moves is smooth but the friction coefficient between the wall and
the block is µ. The block is given an initial speed v0. As a function of the instantaneous speed ‘v’ write
(i) the normal force by the wall on the block,
(ii) the frictional force by the wall and
(iii) the tangential acceleration of the block.
(iv) obtain the speed of the block after one revolution.

7. A smooth rod PQ is rotated in a horizontal plane about its mid point M

which is h = 0.1 m vertically below a fixed point A at a constant angular
velocity 14 rad/s. A light elastic string of natural length 0.1 m requiring A
1.47 N/cm has one end fixed at A and its other end attached to a ring of
mass m = 0.3 kg which is free to slide along the rod. When the ring is h
stationary relative to rod, then find inclination of string with vertical,
tension M
P m w Q
in string, force exerted by ring on the rod.
8. A table with smooth horizontal surface is fixed in a cabin that rotates
with a uniform angular velocity in a circular path of radius R (figure).
A smooth groove AB of length L(< < R) is made on the surface of the
table .The groove makes an angle  with the radius OA of the circle in
which the cabin rotates. A small particle is kept at the point A in the
groove and is released to move along AB. Find the time taken by the
particle to reach the point B.
9. A uniform metallic chain with a length  and whose ends are joined
together is fitted onto a horizontal wooden disc as shown in the figure. The
disc rotates with a speed of n revolutions per second. Find the tension T in
the chain if its mass is m.

10. A 4 kg block is attached to a vertical rod by means of two strings

of equal length. When the system rotates about the axis of the
rod, the strings are extended as shown in figure. 5m

(a) How many revolutions per minute must the system make 
8m A
in order for the tension in the upper chord to be 20 kgf?
(b) What is the tension in the lower chord ?

11. A block of mass m is kept on a horizontal ruler. The friction coefficient between the ruler and the block
is . The ruler is fixed at one end and the block is at a distance L from the fixed end. The ruler is rotated
about the fixed end in the horizontal plane through the fixed end. (A) What can the maximum angular
speed be for which the block does not slip ? (B) If the angular speed of the ruler is uniformly increased
from zero at a constant angular acceleration , at what angular speed will the block slip ?

12. Two particles A and B each of mass m are connected by a massless

string. A is placed on the rough table. The string passes over a small, A
smooth peg. B is left from a position making an  with the vertical.
Find the minimum coefficient of friction between A and the table so 
B
that
A does not slip during the motion of mass B.

13. A small body of mass m is allowed to slide on an inclined frictionless

track from rest position as shown in the figure.

(i) Find the minimum height h, so that body may successfully complete the loop of radius ‘r’.
(ii) If h is double of that minimum height, find the resultant force on the block at position H

14. A nail is located at a certain distance vertically below the point of suspension of a simple pendulum.
The pendulum bob is released from the position where the string makes an angle of 60° from the
vertical. Calculate the distance of the nail from the point of suspension such that the bob will just
perform revolution with the nail as centre. Assume the length of pendulum to be 1m. [IIT 1975]

15. A smooth semicircular wire-track of radius R is fixed in a vertical plane shown

in fig. One end of a massless spring of natural length (3R/4) is attached to the
lower point O of the wire track. A small ring of mass m, which can slide on the
track, is attached to the other end of the spring. The ring is held stationary at R
C m
point P such that the spring makes an angle of 60° with the vertical. The ring
spring constant K = mg/R. Consider the instant when the ring is released, and
60° P
(i) draw free body diagram of the ring, (ii) Determine the tangential acceleration
of the ring and the normal reaction. [JEE 1996, 5 marks] O

16. A particles of mass m is attached at one end of a light, inextensible string of length
 whose other end is fixed at the point C. At the lowest point the particle is given
minimum velocity to complete the circular path in the vertical plane. As it moves in
the circular path the tension in the string changes with .  is defined in the figure.
As  varies from ‘0’ to ‘2’ (i.e. the particle completes one revolution) plot the
variation of tension ‘T’ against ‘’.

17. A person stands on a spring balance at the equator. (a) By what percentage is the balance reading
less than his true weight ? (b) If the speed of earth’s rotation is increased by such an amount that the
balance reading is half the true weight, what will be the length of the day in this case ?
18. A turn of radius 20 m is banked for the vehicles going at a speed of 36 km/h. If the coefficient of static
friction between the road and the tyre is 0.4, what are the possible speeds of a vehicle so that is
neither slips down nor skids up ?

19. Two identical rings which can slide along the rod are kept near the mid
point of a smooth rod of length 2l. The rod is rotated with constant
angular velocity  about vertical axis passing through its centre. The
rod is at height ' h ' from the ground. Find the distance between the
points on the ground where the rings will fall after leaving the rods.

20. A car goes on a horizontal circular road of radius R, the speed increasing at a constant rate
dv
= a. The friction coefficient between the road and the tyre is . Find the speed at which the car will
dt
skid.
21. A track consists of two circular parts ABC and CDE of equal radius 100 m and joined smoothly as
shown in fig. Each part subtends a right angle at its centre. A cycle weighing 100 kg together with the
rider travels at a constant speed of 18 km/h on the track.
(a) Find the normal contact force by the road on the cycle
when it is at B and D. (b) Find the force of friction exerted by
the track on the tyres when the cycle is at B, C and D. (c) Find
the normal force between the road and the cycle just, before
and just after the cycle crosses C. (d) What should be the
minimum friction coefficient between the road and the tyre,
which will ensure that the cyclist can move with constant
speed ? Take g = 10m/s 2.
 E X E R C IS E 3
MATCH THE COLUMN
1. Each situation in column I gives graph of a particle moving in circular path. The variables , and t represent
angular speed (at any time t) , angular displacement (in time t) and time respectively. Column  gives certain
resulting interpretation. Match the graphs in column  with statements in column  and indicate your
answer by darkening appropriate bubbles in the 4 × 4 matrix given in the OMR.

(A) (p) Angular acceleration of particle is uniform


2

(B) (q) Angular acceleration of particle is non-uniform


 -  graph
2

(C) (r) Angular acceleration of particle is directly proportional to t.

t
 - t graph


(D) (s) Angular acceleration of particle is directly proportional to .

t2
 - t2 graph
2. A particle is moving with speed v = 2t2 on the circumference of circle of radius R. Match the quantities
given in column-I with corresponding results in column-II

Column-I Column-II

(A) Magnitude of tangential acceleration of particle (p) decreases with time.

(B) Magnitude of Centripetal acceleration of particle (q) increases with time

(C) Magnitude of angular speed of particle (r) remains constant

with respect to centre of circle

(D) Angle between the total acceleration vector (s) depends on the value of radius R

and centripetal acceleration vector of particle

 COMPREHENSION
Comprehension # 1
A particle undergoes uniform circular motion. The velocity and angular velocity of the particle at an
 
instant of time is v  3 î  4 ĵ m/s and   x î  6 ĵ rad/sec.
3. The value of x in rad/s is
(A) 8 (B) – 8 (C) 6 (D) can't be calculated
4. The radius of circle in metres is
(A) 1/2 m (B) 1 m (C) 2 m (D) can't be calculated
5. The acceleration of particle at the given instant is
(A)  50 k̂ (B)  42 k̂ (C) 2 î  3 ĵ (D) can't be calculated

Comprehension # 2
A small block of mass m is projected horizontally from the top of the
smooth and fixed hemisphere of radius r with speed u as shown. For
values of u  u0, (u0 = gr ) it does not slide on the hemisphere.
[ i.e. leaves the surface at the top itself ]
6. For u = 2 u0, it lands at point P on ground. Find OP.

(A) 2 r (B) 2 r (C) 4r (D) 2 2 r

7. For u = u0/3, find the height from the ground at which it leaves the hemisphere.
19r 19 r 10r 10r
(A) (B) (C) (D)
9 27 9 27

8. Find its net acceleration at the instant it leaves the hemisphere.

(A) –g (B) g/2 (C) g (D) g/3
 E X E R C IS E 4
1. Two blocks of mass m1 = 10 Kg and m 2 = 5 Kg connected to each other by a massless inextensible string
of length 0.3 m are placed along a diameter of turn table. The coefficient of friction between the table and m 1
is 0.5 while there is no friction between m 2 and the table. The table is rotating with an angular velocity of 10
rad/s about a vertical axis passing through its centre O. The masses are placed along the diameter of the
table on either side of the centre O such that the mass m 1 is at a distance of 0.124 m from O. The masses
are observed to be at rest with respect to an observer on the turn table. [JEE 1997, 5/100]
(i) Calculate the frictional force on m1.
(ii) What should be the minimum angular speed of the turn table so that the masses will slip
from this position ?
(iii) How should the masses be placed with the string remaining taut so that there is no
frictional force acting on the mass m 1 ?
2. A small block of mass m slides along a smooth frictional track as shown
in figure. (i) If it starts from rest at P, what is the resultant force acting on it
at Q ? (ii) At what height above the bottom of the loop should the block be
released so that the force it exerts against the track at the top of the loop
equals its weight ?
[REE 1997]

3. A stone tied to a string of length L is whirled in a vertical circle with the other end of the string at the centre.
At a certain instant of time the stone is at its lowest position and has a speed u. The magnitude of the
change in its velocity as it reaches a position, where the string is horizontal, is [JEE 1998, 2/200]

(A) u 2  2gL (B) 2gL (C) u2  gL (D) 2(u 2  gL )

4. A particle at rest starts moving from the top of a large frictionless sphere of radius R. The sphere is fixed on
the ground. Calculate that height from the ground at which the particle leaves the surface of the sphere.
[REE 1998]

5. A particle is suspended vertically from a point O by an inextensible massless A

string of length L. A vertical line AB is at a distance L/8 from O as shown. The
object given a horizontal velocity u. At some point, its motion ceases to be circular O L/8
and eventually the object passes through the line AB. At the instant of crossing
AB, its velocity is horizontal. Find u. [JEE 1999, 10/200] L

u B
6. A long horizontal rod has a bead which can slide along its length and is initially placed at a distance L from
one end A of the rod. The rod is set in angular motion about A with a constant angular acceleration,  . If the
coefficient of friction between the rod and the bead is , and gravity is neglected, then the time after which
the bead starts slipping is- [JEE (Scr) 2000, 3/105]

  1
(A) (B) (C) (D) Infinitesimal
  

7. A small block is shot into each of the four tracks as shown below. Each of the tracks rises to the same
height. The speed with which the block enters the track is the same in all cases. At the highest point of the
track, the normal reaction is maximum is – [JEE (Scr) 2001 , 3/105]

(A) (B) (C) (D)

8. An insect crawls up a hemispherical surface very slowly (see the figure).
The coefficient of friction between the surface and the insect is 1/3. If the 
line joining the centre of the hemispherical surface to the insect makes an
angle  with the vertical, the maximum possible value of  is given-
[JEE (Scr) 2001 , 3/105]
(A) cot  = 3 (B) tan  = 3 (C) sec  = 3 (D) cosec  = 3

9. A simple pendulum is oscillating without damping. When the displacements of the bob is less than maxi-

mum, its acceleration vector a is correctly shown in [JEE 2002 (Scr), 3/90]

(A) (B) (C)  (D)

 

10. A spherical ball of mass m is kept at the highest point in the space
between two fixed, concentric spheres A and B (see figure). The smaller
sphere A has a radius R and the space between the two spheres has a
width d. The ball has a diameter very slightly less than d. All surfaces are
frictionless. The ball given a gentle push (towards the right in the figure).
The angle made by the radius vector of the ball with the upward vertical is
represented by  (shown in figure) [JEE 2010 , 5/60]
(a) Express the total normal reaction force exerted by the spheres on the ball as a function of angle .
(b) Let NA and NB denote the magnitudes of the normal reaction force on the ball exerted by the spheres
A and B, respectively. Sketch the variations of NA and NB as functions of cos in the range 0    
by drawing two separate graphs in your answer book, taking cos on the horizontal axis

11. A bob of mass M is suspended by a massless string of length L. The horizontal velocity V at position A is just
sufficient to make it reach the point B. The angle  at which the speed of the bob is half of that at A, satisfies
Figure : [JEE 2011, 3/243 ]

    3 3
(A)  = (B)  (C)  (D) 
4 4 2 2 4 4
 ANSWER KEY
EXERISICE-1
1. C 2. C 3. C 4. D 5. ACD 6. CD 7. C 8. C
9. D 10. C 11. C 12. A 13. C 14. D 15. D 16. A
17. A 18. A 19. D 20. A 21. D 22. C 23. A 24. B
25. AC 26. B 27. BC 28. A 29. BD
EXERISICE-2

10 5
1. ms–2 2. (a) t = 2s (b)  m/s = 3.14 m/s (c)  m/sec2
 2

1/ 2
3  3  25 5R 11 17v 289 v
2
3. (a) 25 m/s2 (b) 125 m/s (c) m/s2 4. , , ,
2  4  2 6v 6 5R 25 R

1
 4 tan   3 mv 2 µmv 2 µv 2
5.   6. (i) (ii) (iii)  (iv) v0 e–2µ
 k  R R R

147 2L
7. cos  = 3/5 , T = 9.8 N , N = = 2.94 N 8. 2 9. T = mn2
50  R cos 

1
30 35  g  2 4
10. (a) per min. = 39.6 per min., (b) 150 N 11. (A) g / L , (B)     2 
 2  L  

5 4
12. min = 3  2 cos  13. (i) hmin = r (ii) F = 6 mg 14. m
2 5

R
5 3 3mg C
N
15. g, 16. 17. (a) 0.35% , (b) 2.0 hour
8 8 kR/4 P
60°
O
mg

50 18 2h
18. Between  = 14.7 km/h and 54 km/hr 19. 2 y 2 ( x   )2 x = y =  l
3 5 g

( g 
1
2 2
20.  a2 ) R2 4 21. (a) 975N, 1025 N , (b) 0,707N, 0 , (c) 682N , 732 N , (d ) 0.1037

EXERISICE-3
1. (A) q,s (B) p (C) p (D) q,r 2. (A) q (B) q, s (C) q, s (D) p, s
3. B 4. A 5. A 6. D 7. B 8. C
EXERISICE-4
1. (i) 36 N (ii) 11.67 rad/s (iii) r1 = 0.1 m and r2 = 0.2 m 2.  65  mg , 3R 3. D

3 3 
4. H = (5/3)R 5. u  gL  2  6. A 7. A 8. A 9. C
 2 
 
NB
NA 5mg
mg
2mg

10. (a) N = 3mg cos - 2mg, (b) –1 0 2/3 cos 11. D

cos
cos =2/3 cos=1