AP Physics C: Angular Momentum - 2/28/25

Angular Momentum: Angular momentum is a physical quantity that represents the rotational inertia and rotational velocity of an object. It is defined as the product of a body's moment of inertia and its angular velocity, typically expressed in the formula

[ L = I \omega ]

where ( L ) is angular momentum, ( I ) is the moment of inertia, and ( \omega ) is the angular velocity.

Key properties of angular momentum include:

• Conservation: In a closed system, the total angular momentum remains constant if no external torque acts on it.

• Direction: The direction of angular momentum is given by the right-hand rule, indicating that it is perpendicular to the plane of rotation.

• Applications: Angular momentum plays a vital role in various fields, including astrophysics (rotation of planets), engineering (design of spinning machinery), and sports (athletic movements).

Understanding angular momentum is essential for analyzing rotational motion and dynamics.