[Physics] If the angular momentum is conserved in a system whose moment of inertia is increased, it’s kinetic energy decreases

angular momentumenergy-conservationnewtonian-mechanicsrotational-dynamicswork

$\Delta$ KE less than zero for increased Moment of Inertia

The workout that $\Delta K.E.$ is less than zero is attached. But where does this energy go. It is transformed back to rotational KE if moment of inertia decreases. How would you account for the change in Kinetic energy?

Best Answer

As pointed out in many comments, the concept of Work is integral here.

In Newtonian Mechanics, we have the equation: $$K_{initial} + W = K_{final}$$ Here the work is done by changing the $I$, the moment of inertia. To do this, the mass distribution of the body needs to be shifted further from the axis of rotation.

Naturally, at least some particles of the body need to be moved away from the axis of rotation. To do this an external force is required. Displacement of these particle is against the centripetal force causing the rotation - such as tension. This leads to the particle, and hence the system, losing Kinetic Energy. (Negative work is being done by the centripetal force on he particle)

Exactly how much energy is lost is given by the $\Delta E$ you have caculated.

The above is just an attempt to provide an intuitive view of conservation of angular momentum in view of linear dynamics.