Analyzing Rotational Work and Energy Using Newton's Laws

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on analyzing the dynamics of a system involving a solid sphere and a hanging mass using Newton's Laws. The system consists of a 12.0 kg solid sphere with a radius of 0.500 m connected to a 5.00 kg weight via a massless cord over a frictionless pulley. Participants derive equations for tension and acceleration, utilizing the moment of inertia for the solid sphere, which is calculated as 2/5mr². The final results indicate that the acceleration of the mass is approximately 2.25 m/s², and the tension in the cord is about 60.3 N.

PREREQUISITES
  • Newton's Laws of Motion
  • Moment of Inertia for a solid sphere (2/5mr²)
  • Understanding of torque and rotational dynamics
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's Laws in rotational motion
  • Learn about the differences between static and kinetic friction in rolling objects
  • Explore the concept of tension in systems involving pulleys
  • Investigate the effects of different moments of inertia on system dynamics
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of rotational dynamics and tension in pulley systems.

  • #31
gneil does this work for problems with inclines as well?? I have posted a question with an incline, if this trick works for that too that is very handy!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
Torater said:
gneil does this work for problems with inclines as well?? I have posted a question with an incline, if this trick works for that too that is very handy!

It should work fine. Give it a go!
 
  • #33
Ok take a look at my problem that has incline in the heading Ill go try it right now with this trick!
 
  • #34
Please remember that the question (particularly if it says "use Newton's laws") may not allow you to use this short-cut … so check with your professor. :smile:

However, even if you're not allowed, it's a very quick way of checking your answer (and very useful if your arithmetic sometimes goes wrong! :wink:)
 
  • #35
ya i'll have to do it the other way because it specifies using Newtons laws but I can confirm I didn't mess up my algebra by this handy method!
 

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
7K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K