Angular Momentum and Conservation of Angular Momentum: Practice Problem & Solution

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Angular Momentum and Conservation of Angular Momentum. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

In the absence of any external torque acting on the sphere in free space, the angular momentum of the system remains conserved. Therefore, angular momentum remains constant while moment of inertia increases and angular velocity decreases.