Intuition for forces & torques

In summary, the question is whether a force needs to go through the centre of mass to cause translational acceleration, and the answer is that any force will cause translational acceleration, but if the force does not go through the centre of mass, there will also be a rotational acceleration. The distribution of work between kinetic and rotational energy when a force is applied not through the centre of mass depends on the ratio of the body's moment of inertia to its mass. In terms of applying a force with the ability to do a certain amount of work, it may refer to an impulse and in the context of billiards, pool, or snooker.
  • #1
decerto
87
2
Does the line of a force applied need to go through the centre of mass to cause translational acceleration?

I have follow up questions regarding the answer to this simple question which I can't find the answer for anywhere
 
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  • #2
hello decerto! :smile:
decerto said:
Does the line of a force applied need to go through the centre of mass to cause translational acceleration?

any force will cause translational acceleration (if the body is free)

if its line does not pass through the centre of mass, then there will also be a rotational acceleration
 
  • #3
Ok thanks, the follow up question is related to the fact both torque and force do work, how is this work distributed for set amount of energy.

Say a force is applied not through the centre of mass by something with the ability to do X amount of work on a rigid body, what decides how much of that work goes into changing the kinetic energy vs changing the rotational energy
 
  • #4
decerto said:
Say a force is applied not through the centre of mass by something with the ability to do X amount of work on a rigid body, what decides how much of that work goes into changing the kinetic energy vs changing the rotational energy

i'm not aware of any simple formula

it would depend on the ratio of the moment of inertia of the body to its mass
 
  • #5
How do you apply a force "with the ability to do x amount of work" ?

If you apply a single force to a body it will continue to accelerate indefinitely.
 
  • #6
Studiot said:
How do you apply a force "with the ability to do x amount of work" ?

If you apply a single force to a body it will continue to accelerate indefinitely.

I suppose I'm talking about an impulse
 
Last edited:
  • #7
So we are talking billiards, pool or snooker perhaps?
 
  • #8
Studiot said:
So we are talking billiards, pool or snooker perhaps?

Sorry?
 

1. What is intuition for forces and torques?

Intuition for forces and torques refers to our ability to understand and predict how objects will move and rotate under the influence of external forces and torques. It involves using our spatial reasoning skills to visualize and conceptualize the effects of forces and torques on an object's motion.

2. How important is intuition for understanding forces and torques?

Intuition is crucial for understanding forces and torques because it allows us to make quick and accurate predictions about the behavior of objects in our everyday lives. It also helps us to identify the appropriate equations and concepts to use when solving problems involving forces and torques.

3. Can intuition for forces and torques be developed?

Yes, intuition for forces and torques can be developed through practice and experience. By regularly observing and analyzing the motion of objects in different situations, we can improve our ability to intuitively understand how forces and torques affect their motion.

4. How does intuition for forces and torques differ from mathematical analysis?

While mathematical analysis provides a precise and quantitative understanding of forces and torques, intuition allows us to quickly and qualitatively understand the general behavior and trends of objects under the influence of these forces. It is a more intuitive and conceptual approach to understanding motion.

5. Can intuition for forces and torques ever be wrong?

Intuition for forces and torques is based on our understanding and perception of the world, which can sometimes be limited or biased. Therefore, our intuition may not always accurately predict the behavior of objects under the influence of forces and torques. It is important to consistently test and verify our intuitions through experiments and mathematical analysis.

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