An object is moving in a circular path with a constant speed. What can be said about the work done by the centripetal force?

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Q: An object is moving in a circular path with a constant speed. What can be said about the work done by the centripetal force?

Solution: Centripetal force does no work as it acts perpendicular to the direction of motion.

Steps: 8

Step 1: Understand that an object moving in a circular path is constantly changing direction.
Step 2: Recognize that the speed of the object remains constant, but its direction is always changing.
Step 3: Identify the centripetal force, which is the force that keeps the object moving in a circle.
Step 4: Note that the centripetal force acts towards the center of the circle.
Step 5: Realize that the direction of the object's motion is tangential to the circle, which is perpendicular to the centripetal force.
Step 6: Understand that work is done when a force causes displacement in the direction of the force.
Step 7: Since the centripetal force is perpendicular to the direction of motion, it does not cause any displacement in its direction.
Step 8: Conclude that the work done by the centripetal force is zero.