Moment of inertia quiz for AP Physics C: 10 questions with answers

by aicko
28 October 202628 October 2026

Quick answer: Moment of inertia is I = ∫r² dm, the sum of each mass element times the square of its distance from the rotation axis. This AP Physics C quiz checks moment of inertia with 10 multiple-choice questions and instant feedback; every answer comes with a short explanation.

Moment of inertia quiz for AP Physics C: 10 questions with answers

This moment of inertia quiz for AP Physics C has quick multiple-choice questions with instant feedback. Need a refresher first? Read the lesson or do the worksheet on moment of inertia.

Ten multiple-choice questions on moment of inertia, the parallel axis theorem, torque and rotational motion. Select the best answer, then read the explanation, which shows the usual error behind each wrong option.

Level: AP Physics C (Mechanics and E&M, calculus-based) · Curriculum: AP PC:M Unit 5

Contents

Moment of inertia quiz: the questions

The moment of inertia of a body about an axis is

The unit of moment of inertia is

A uniform rod of mass M and length L has I about its centre of

A uniform solid disc has I about its central axis of

The parallel axis theorem is

The correct form of Newton's second law for rotation is

A force of 20 N acts at 0.30 m from the axis, at 90° to the lever arm. The torque is

A skater pulls in her arms while spinning freely. Her angular momentum

Of a solid disc and a hoop of equal mass and radius, the one with the larger moment of inertia is the

To use the parallel axis theorem you must start from the moment of inertia about

Moment of inertia of a continuous body? — I = ∫r² dm

Unit of moment of inertia? — kg·m²

Rod about its centre? — ML²/12

Rod about one end? — ML²/3

Solid disc about its centre? — ½MR²

Solid sphere about a diameter? — (2/5)MR²

Parallel axis theorem? — I = I_cm + Md²

Rotational form of Newton's second law? — Στ = Iα

Angular momentum of a rotating body? — L = Iω

Rotational kinetic energy? — K = ½Iω²

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