Is this tangential velocity or angular velocity?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem related to rotary speed, specifically distinguishing between tangential velocity and angular velocity in the context of a rotating rod. The problem provides a scenario involving a rod with a specified length and speed, prompting questions about the appropriate definitions and calculations related to centripetal acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definitions of tangential and angular velocity, questioning how to differentiate between them based on units. There is also a discussion about the interpretation of the rod's length as either radius or diameter, leading to further inquiry about the implications of these assumptions.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the units of measurement for velocity, while others are actively questioning the assumptions about the rod's dimensions. The conversation reflects a mix of understanding and confusion, with no explicit consensus reached on the interpretations of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The problem context includes a specific rotary speed and length of the rod, which are critical for determining centripetal acceleration. Participants are navigating the implications of these values and their respective interpretations, indicating a need for careful consideration of definitions and assumptions in physics problems.

donjt81
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Here is the homework question...

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the highest rotary speed ever attained was 2010m/s(4500mph). The rotating rod was 15cm(6in.) long. Assume the speed quoted is that of the end of the rod. What is the centripetal acceleration of the end of the rod?

So I think since they say rotary speed they are talking about angular velocity here. so i would say angular velocity (w) = 2010m/s. Is this correct? or is it tangential velocity (v) = 2010m/s?

is there a certain way to tell the difference between tangential velocity and angular velocity in a question.

Thanks in advance
 
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donjt81 said:
is there a certain way to tell the difference between tangential velocity and angular velocity in a question.
Thanks in advance
Yes, look at the unit. Here it is 2010 m/s. This is a linear velocity unit. angular velocity is in angular units per unit of time, such as "rotations per second", "revolutions per minute", "degrees per second." The SI unit for \omega is radians per second.
 
Thank you that makes it easier to tell.

Also I was looking at it again and another question popped in my head.

When i first looked at the problem I was assuming that radius=15cm but then after looking at it some more i was thinking is it diameter = 15cm or is it radius = 15cm

does anyone know?
 
There is no way that the diameter is 15 cm. Either the rod is rotating about its end and the radius is 15 cm, or the rod is roatating about its middle, and the radius will be 7.5 cm.
 
There is no way that the diameter is 15 cm
and the radius will be 7.5 cm.


umm... that's the same thing. diameter is 15 means that radius is 15/2=7.5

soooo... is'nt that contradicting statements.
 
donjt81 said:
umm... that's the same thing. diameter is 15 means that radius is 15/2=7.5
soooo... is'nt that contradicting statements.
Um, yes I was, um,... seing if...

I was checking to see if... you were...paying attention.

Very good.

[I have no idea what I was thinking last night! ..it happens]
 
no worries
thanks for your help.
i was able to solve the problem
 
Did you figure it out or no? I'm doing that exact problem now, except it's 15.3 not 15. is it rotating around the middle or about the end?

ahhh. lame physics lol.
 

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