Physics · Force and inertia, Newton's first law of motion, momentum, Newton's second Law of motion, impulse, Newton's third Law of motion

A uniform sphere of radius is placed on a smooth horizontal surface and a horizo

A uniform sphere of radius \( \boldsymbol{R} \) is placed on a smooth horizontal surface and a horizontal force \( \boldsymbol{F} \) is applied on it at a distance \( h \) above the centre. The acceleration of the centre of mass of the sphere is

  • A. maximum when \( h=0 \)
  • B. maximum when \( h= \) R
  • C. maximum when \( h=R / 2 \)
  • D. independent of \( h \)

Step-by-step solution

The net horizontal force on the sphere is F (applied force), and there is no friction. According to Newton's second law, the acceleration of the center of mass is a_cm = F/m, which is independent of the point of application h.
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