2 bowls rolling on an irregular surface

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the dynamics of two identical bowls rolling on different paths: one with a convexity and the other with a concavity. Both bowls start with the same initial velocities and roll without slipping. The bowl on the concave path reaches the goal first due to its maintained average velocity, while the convex bowl experiences a decrease in velocity when climbing. In the case of friction, the analysis requires understanding the relationship between the depth or width of the concavity and the simultaneous arrival of both bowls at the goal.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy equations: KE = (mV^2)/2 and E = (Iw^2)/2
  • Familiarity with concepts of rotational motion and inertia
  • Knowledge of frictional forces and their effects on motion
  • Basic principles of dynamics and energy conservation
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the effects of friction on rolling motion in detail
  • Study the principles of rotational kinetic energy and its calculations
  • Investigate the relationship between inertia and path shape in rolling objects
  • Analyze simpler cases of rolling objects, such as spheres and discs, to understand their dynamics
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Students of physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of rotational motion and energy conservation principles.

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Homework Statement


2 identical bowls are rolling on 2 different routes. The first one has a convexity and the second one has a concavity in their middle parts. The convexity fits perfectly the concavity. Both bowls had the same initial velocities. Bowls are rolling without slipping and jumping. Which one will reach the goal first? Why? What can you tell about their final velocities and kinetic energy of rotational motion? Consider 2 cases:
a) there are no wastes of energy
b) there appears friction. How many times deeper or wider should be the concavity so that both bowls reach the goal simultaneously?


Homework Equations


KE = (mV^2)/2 kinetic energy
E = (Iw^2)/2 kinetic energy of rotational motion
T=fN friction


The Attempt at a Solution


The first part I did in such a way - consider an average velocities of both bowls. When the first one reaches the goal its average velocity is less than the second, because when the first one climbed the convexity its velocity decreased and thus affectioned average velocity in a negative way. The second bowl behaved just in opposite. Energies are the same, because there are no wastes.
However, I have a big problem with b). Actually, I have no idea how to solve this one.
 
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The problem is mostly about inertia. You will need to know that rotational kinetic energy is [itex]\frac{1}{2}I\omega^2[/itex]. Think about a couple simpler cases: dropping a spherical ball down a hill, dropping a disc down a hill, and dropping a wheel down a hill, where all have the same density. Which one will finish first, or will they finish first?
 

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