Rotational motion about a fixed axis

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating net torque for rotational motion about a fixed axis, specifically for a CD and a radial arm saw blade. The user initially applied the torque formula τ = I * α, where I is the moment of inertia and α is angular acceleration, but received an incorrect answer. The correct approach involves ensuring accurate unit conversions and calculations, particularly in determining angular acceleration and moment of inertia for uniform solid disks. The user ultimately seeks clarification on the differences between the two scenarios presented.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rotational dynamics and torque
  • Knowledge of moment of inertia for solid disks
  • Familiarity with angular velocity and acceleration calculations
  • Proficiency in unit conversions (grams to kilograms, centimeters to meters)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the calculation of angular acceleration using α = (ωf - ωi) / t
  • Learn about the moment of inertia for various shapes, focusing on solid disks
  • Explore the implications of torque in different rotational systems
  • Review unit conversion techniques to avoid common errors in physics calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, mechanical engineering, and anyone involved in rotational motion analysis will benefit from this discussion.

cavery4
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A CD has a mass of 17 g and a radius of 6.0 cm. When inserted into a player, the CD starts from rest and accelerates to an angular velocity of 20 rad/s in 0.65 s. Assuming the CD is a uniform solid disk, determine the net torque acting on it.

I thought to use: torque = I * alpha (acceleration)
To find Inertia, I did I = 1/2 MR^2
to find acceleration: alpha = (wf - wi)/time or 20 rad/s / .65 seconds
Also, I converted 17 g to .17 kg and 6.0 cm to .06 meters.

My answer was .942. This was marked wrong by webassign. Obviously, I am missing something here. Wrong formula? Missing an important concept? Possibly wrong calculation?

If you point me to my error, I would appreciate this greatly!
I used the above methods to find the correct answer to this problem:

The circular blade on a radial arm saw is turning at 256 rad/s at the instant the motor is turned off. In 17.0 s the speed of the blade is reduced to 80 rad/s. Assume the blade to be a uniform solid disk of radius 0.160 m and mass 0.400 kg. Find the net torque applied to the blade.

What is different about these two problems? What does the radial arm have to do with it?
 
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It can't be.It should be approx. [itex]9.4\cdot 10^{-4} \mbox{Nm}[/itex].

So check your arithmetics again.And those units,too.


Daniel.
 
thank you!
 

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