Q.

A force F=αi^+3j^+6k^ is acting at a point r=2i^-6j^-12k^. The value of α for which angular momentum about origin is conserved is           [2015]
 

1 zero  
2 1  
3 - 1  
4 2  

Ans.

(3)

For the conservation of angular momentum about origin, the torque τ acting on the particle will be zero.

By definition, τ=r×F

Here, r=2i^-6j^-12k^ and F=αi^+3j^+6k^

   τ=|i^j^k^2-6-12α36|

           =i^(-36+36)-j^(12+12α)+k^(6+6α)

            =-j^(12+12α)+k^(6+6α)

But  τ=0

      12+12α=0  or  α=-1 and  6+6α=0  or  α=-1