In a rotating physical system (e.g., a star formation region or a skater), what happens to the rotation rate (or angular speed) when the mass of the system condenses toward the center of rotation?
A)It varies periodically.
B)It decreases.
C)Since rotation depends only on the initial rotation speed, it remains the same.
D)It increases.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a rotating physical system, the moment of inertia decreases as the mass moves towards the center of rotation. This results in an increase in the rotation rate (angular speed) in order to conserve angular momentum. This phenomenon is also known as the conservation of angular momentum. Therefore, the correct answer is D - it increases.

In a Rotating Physical System (E