Question

The circular motion of a particle with constant speed is
(A). Periodic but not simple harmonic
(B). Simple harmonic but not periodic
(C). Periodic and simple harmonic
(D). Neither periodic nor simple harmonic

Answer 1

Hint – In a circular motion of any particle with constant speed, the particle repeats its motion after a regular interval of time.

Complete step-by-step solution -
We have been asked about the circular motion of a particle with constant speed.
So, as we know if a particle is performing circular motion with constant speed then the particle will repeat its motion after a regular interval of time. But the particle will not oscillate about a fixed point.
Which implies that the motion of the particle will be periodic but not simple harmonic due to absence of oscillations.

The above figure shows a particle performing circular motion with constant speed.
This particle will continue to repeat its motion periodically but it will not oscillate.
Hence, the correct answer is option A. Periodic but not simple harmonic.

Note- Whenever such types of questions appear, then first know that a periodic motion is motion when a particle repeats it. motion at a regular interval of time and in simple harmonic motion, the particle will oscillate about a fixed point. As mentioned in the solution, the motion of the particle is periodic only.