# Homework Help: Maximum angular momentum

1. May 12, 2008

### dinonichas

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

A particle moves in a straight line past a point O, as shown below. At which point is the angular momentum maximum (with respect to O)? If the minimum distance between O and the line is 2 m, and the object has a mass of 2 kg and a velocity of 3 m/s, what is the maximum angular momentum of the particle with respect to O?

2. Relevant equations

angular momentum is equal to:
Iω= (mr^2)mv ??

3. The attempt at a solution

0,i think,because the momentum should be 90 degree from the radius to make the angular momentum.so in this case the particle is moving in the straight line with the point O so it will be 0

2. May 12, 2008

### Phlogistonian

$$\omega \neq mv$$

There is a simple formula relating angular momentum to mass, velocity, and radius vector. Find that formula in your textbook and use it.

This is correct.

But this isn't. If the point O is 2 m from the line, the angular momentum (with respect to that point) can't be zero.

Last edited: May 12, 2008