Why Is dr/dt=-V in Polar Coordinates?

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The discussion centers on the interpretation of variables in a physics problem involving polar coordinates. It clarifies that in this context, V represents the velocity of the downward pull on the string, not the tangential velocity, which is why the relationship V = rw does not apply. The equation dr/dt = -V indicates that as the vertical string length increases, the radius r decreases. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the meaning of each variable before applying equations. Misinterpretations can lead to incorrect conclusions in solving physics problems.
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In the solution , it says we have dr/dt= -V (polar coordinates)
How? i can't see how this can be possible , we know that r(t)=V/w(t), and that's it .
 
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Andrax said:
wPdNsUI.png

In the solution , it says we have dr/dt= -V (polar coordinates) How? i can't see how this can be possible ,
r gets smaller as the vertical string gets longer.

Andrax said:
we know that r(t)=V/w(t), and that's it .
Why?
 
You have to be careful when using equations in physics. You cannot just blindly plug in variables, you need to know what each variable means.

In this problem V is NOT the tangential velocity so V is not equal to rw as it is in many circular motion problems. Here V is the velocity of the downward pull on the string.
 
DaleSpam said:
You have to be careful when using equations in physics. You cannot just blindly plug in variables, you need to know what each variable means.

In this problem V is NOT the tangential velocity so V is not equal to rw as it is in many circular motion problems. Here V is the velocity of the downward pull on the string.

thank you , the differential equations gives me w(t)=2 if i use V=rw , i just presumed that since it's alays used in these kind of problems
 
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