Angular Acceleration of Wheels: Solve Homework Problem

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the angular acceleration of bicycle wheels given a specific number of revolutions over a time interval. The context is rooted in rotational motion and kinematics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of angular displacement and the relationship between revolutions and radians. There are attempts to apply relevant equations for angular motion, and questions arise regarding the correctness of the calculations and assumptions made.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested different equations to use for calculating angular acceleration, while others are questioning the values and methods being applied. There is an ongoing exploration of potential errors in the calculations without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that angular acceleration is constant and are grappling with the conversion between revolutions and radians, as well as the implications of the initial conditions provided in the problem statement.

Devin Longo
Messages
11
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A cyclist starts from rest and pedals so that the wheels make 8.5 revolutions in the first 4.5 s. What is the angular acceleration of the wheels (assumed constant)?



Homework Equations



\alpha = \Delta\omega/ \Deltat



The Attempt at a Solution



I converted 8.5 to radians and divided by 4.5. BUT I CANT GET THE RIGHT ANSWER!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Use the formula
θ = ωο*t + 1/2*α*t^2 and find α.
 
So, I do that and I get .839. I kept 8.5 as my theta. It still isn't right. What could I be doing wrong?
 
No. The angular displacement θ = 2*π*n, where n is the number of revolutions per second.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
7K
Replies
19
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K