The Earth's density increases with depth.If instead the Earth had uniform density,but the same angular velocity and mass,how would its rotational kinetic energy compare to the actual value?
A)It would be the same as the actual value.
B)It would be less than the actual value.
C)It would be greater than the actual value.
D)More information is needed to find the answer.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rotational kinetic energy depends on the moment of inertia. A uniform density Earth would have a larger moment of inertia compared to the actual Earth, which has more mass concentrated towards the center. With the same angular velocity, a larger moment of inertia would result in greater rotational kinetic energy.

The Earth's Density Increases with Depth