Angular acceleration of a yo-yo pulled with constant force

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angular acceleration of a yo-yo subjected to a constant tension T while unwinding from a spool. The relevant equations include α = τnet / I and τ = Fsinθr. The confusion arises regarding the moment of inertia, where the participant questions whether to use I alone or I + mR². The consensus is that the yo-yo and spool should be treated as a single rigid object, and the net torque is influenced by the tension and the forces acting on the yo-yo.

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ShilpaM
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Homework Statement


A yo-yo is pulled with a constant tension T. The string is horizontal and parallel to the table and unwinding from the bottom of the spool, as shown. The yo-yo's outer radius is R and the spool radius is r. The mass of the yo-yo is m and the moment of inertia of the yo-yo around the axis through its centre of mass is I. What is the angular acceleration of the yo-yo, assuming it rolls without slipping?

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2. Homework Equations

α = τnet / I
τ = Fsinθr

The Attempt at a Solution


I think the spool rotates in the same direction as T, but the rest of the yo-yo has to rotate in the opposite direction in order to roll without slipping. T applies a negative torque, since it causes rotation in the CW direction, so τT = -Tr
This is where I'm stuck. Is the inertia of the yo-yo just I or is it I + mR2? And I'm not sure if it's only tension applying a torque to the yo-yo, or if the floor is exerting a backward force on the yo-yo to make it roll, and if so, is the force proportionate to the normal force. Can anyone please help me figure this one out?
 
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ShilpaM said:
I think the spool rotates in the same direction as T, but the rest of the yo-yo has to rotate in the opposite direction
The yo-yo and spool should be taken as one rigid object. They cannot rotate in opposite directions.
The easiest way is to take moments about a point through which the unknown forces pass. What point would that be?
 

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