Question

Show that the angular momentum L=r×p vector is an axial vector.

Answer 1

Question #51350, Physics, Mechanics | Kinematics | Dynamics

**Problem.** Show that the angular momentum $L=r \times p$ vector is an axial vector.

**Solution.** The equation $\vec{L} = \vec{r} \times \vec{p}$ could be rewritten, as

$$\vec{L} = \vec{r} \times (m \vec{v}).$$

The above relation shows that the angular momentum is a vector directed perpendicular to the plane containing $\vec{r}$ and $\vec{v}$ and its sense is given by right-hand rule (see fig.).

Therefore the angular vector is an axial vector.

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