The person in the drawing ____________________ in the right panel when compared to the left panel because of conservation of angular momentum.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Conservation of angular momentum states that angular momentum is conserved unless acted upon by an external force. In the left panel, the person has their arms extended out which increases their moment of inertia. When they bring their arms in as seen in the right panel, their moment of inertia decreases. However, since angular momentum is conserved, decreasing their moment of inertia causes an increase in their angular velocity (spin). Therefore, the person in the drawing spins faster in the right panel.

The Person in the Drawing ____________________ in the Right Panel