Question

What happens when an object in uniform motion is released (meaning no centripetal force is applied)?

a. the object continues to orbit

b. the object falls to the center of the orbit

c. the object flies directly away from the center of the orbit

d: the object conitnues in the direction of its instantaneous velocity at the moment of release

Answer 1

Uniform circular motion of object is due to the instantaneous velocity which acts tangential to circle and centripetal force which guide the object along circular path.

When the object in uniform motion is released then their will be no guiding force (centripetal force). At that instance it will move in the direction of its instantaneous velocity.

As per options are given,

From my point of view

Option d) Is correct  

The object continues in the direction of its instantaneous velocity at the movement of release.

In case of any querry regarding explanation. Feel free to comment.

Thank You.