An object on an inclined plane

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the speed and angular velocity of a homogenous thin cylinder on an inclined plane with a given angle and coefficient of friction. The acceleration is derived as a = g(sinα - μcosα), leading to the linear velocity formula v = √(2lg(sinα - μcosα). However, the challenge lies in determining the angular velocity, as the relationship between translational and rotational motion requires additional information, such as the radius of the cylinder. Participants suggest using Newton's laws and the condition for rolling without slipping but conclude that insufficient information is available to solve for angular velocity. The conversation highlights the complexities of dynamics involving friction and rolling motion.
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Homework Statement


A homogenous thin cylinder is put on an inclined plane (angle of elevation is α). The coefficient of friction is \mu . What is the speed of the centre of the mass of the cylinder and it's angular velocity at distance l from the start of motion.


Homework Equations


F=ma
I=mR^2/2
v=at



The Attempt at a Solution


I drew a free body diagram and found out that the acceleration is
a=g(sinα-\mu\cosα) and found the velocity
v=\sqrt{2lg(sinα-\mu\cosα)}

The problem is, i can't find the angular velocity in any way.
 
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I presume this is pure "rolling", no sliding, motion. In one complete rotation, then, the cylinder will have moved a distance equal to the circumference of the cylinder. Since you know the linear speed of the center axis, you know the time it will take the cylinder to move that far. The angular speed is 2\pi radians divide by that time.
 
funoras said:
I drew a free body diagram and found out that the acceleration is
a=g(sinα-\mu\cosα)
How did you derive this result?
and found the velocity
v=\sqrt{2lg(sinα-\mu\cosα)}
Same question here.

The problem is, i can't find the angular velocity in any way.
The translational and rotational velocities are related by the constraint that the cylinder rolls without slipping.
 
N=mgcos\alpha
ma=mgsin\alpha-F
F=\mu N

and from here
a=g(sinα−μcosα)
and the distance l is
l=at^2/2
from here t=\sqrt{2l/a}
and velocity is v=at=\sqrt{2lg(sinα−μcosα)}

But that would mean the cylinder is sliding i guess. I'm completely lost now.
 
funoras said:
F=\mu N
Do not assume this. F = μN would be the maximum possible value of static friction for the given surface; the actual friction needed to prevent slipping will be less. Just call the friction F and solve for it.

(Don't forget Newton's 2nd law for rotation.)
 
So
mg sin \alpha - F = ma
FR=mR^2\beta/2
a=\beta R

and from here a=2gsin\alpha /3

and i can find the translational velocity, but what about the angular velocity? it seems i will need the radius, which is not given
 
funoras said:
and i can find the translational velocity, but what about the angular velocity? it seems i will need the radius, which is not given
Yes, you are correct. It seems you do not have enough information to obtain the angular velocity.

(If this is a textbook problem, what book is it from?)
 
It's not a textbook problem. However, thanks a lot for your help ! :)
 

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