Analyzing Simple Harmonic Motion of a Rolling Sphere in a Cylindrical Trough

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the analysis of a solid sphere rolling without slipping in a cylindrical trough, demonstrating that it undergoes simple harmonic motion (SHM) for small displacements. The derived period of this motion is T = 2π√(28R/5g), where R is the radius of the sphere and g is the acceleration due to gravity. The approach involves using the principles of a physical pendulum, with the center of mass (CM) of the system located at 4R from the sphere's CM. The moment of inertia is calculated considering both the sphere's rotation and its motion in the trough.

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  • Understanding of simple harmonic motion (SHM) principles
  • Knowledge of physical pendulum dynamics
  • Familiarity with moment of inertia calculations
  • Basic concepts of rotational motion and angular frequency
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  • Study the derivation of the period of a physical pendulum
  • Learn about the moment of inertia for various shapes, including spheres
  • Explore the relationship between angular speed and angular frequency in rolling motion
  • Investigate the effects of different geometries on SHM behavior
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Homework Statement


A solid sphere (radius = R) rolls without slipping in a
cylindrical trough (radius = 5R), as shown in Figure
P13.56. Show that, for small displacements from equilib-
rium perpendicular to the length of the trough, the
sphere executes simple harmonic motion with a period
T = 2Pi √28R/5g.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


It's essentially a pendulum type problem except a ball is rolling instead of just moving. Once we get w were set:
Using physical pendulum, w = root(mgd/I):
d = distance to CM of system = 5R-R = 4R = CM of ball.
I = I was thinking that the axis of rotation is at 4R from the CM of the ball, Icm of ball = 2/5MR^2, so I was thinking I = 2/5MR^2 + M(4R)^2, but this doesn't look like it's going to put me in the right direction.

Any thoughts?
 
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The ball rotates around its own CM while rolling in the trough and the CM performs circular motion around the axis of the cylinder. The angular speed of rotation is different from the angular frequency of the SHM.

ehild
 

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