Angular deceleration of a washing machine spin cycle

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angular acceleration of a washing machine during its spin cycle. Given an initial angular velocity of 6.0 revolutions per second (rev/s) and a stopping distance of 5.0 revolutions, participants utilize the equation w² = w₀² + 2αθ to derive angular acceleration (α) and subsequently apply w = w₀ + αt to find the time taken to stop. The calculated time for the spin cycle to decelerate is approximately 0.833 seconds. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding angular dynamics and the relationships between angular velocity, acceleration, and displacement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular velocity and acceleration
  • Familiarity with rotational dynamics equations
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
  • Knowledge of units for measuring angles in rotational motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the equation w² = w₀² + 2αθ
  • Learn how to apply the equation w = w₀ + αt in practical scenarios
  • Explore the concept of angular displacement and its units
  • Investigate real-world applications of angular dynamics in machinery
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Students studying physics, engineers involved in mechanical design, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of rotational motion and dynamics.

Zoubayr
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Homework Statement
If you lift the lid of a washing machine during the rapid
spin–dry cycle, the cycle stops (for safety), typically after 5.0
revolutions. If the clothes are spinning at 6.0 rev/s initially,
what is their constant angular acceleration during the slowing
motion? How long do they take to come to a stop?
Relevant Equations
w=w_o+αt
6.0 rev - 1 s
1 rev - 1/6
5.0 rev - (1/6) x 5 = (5/6) s = 0.833 s

I do not know how to calculate the angular acceleration
 
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Zoubayr said:
Homework Statement:: If you lift the lid of a washing machine during the rapid
spin–dry cycle, the cycle stops (for safety), typically after 5.0
revolutions. If the clothes are spinning at 6.0 rev/s initially,
what is their constant angular acceleration during the slowing
motion? How long do they take to come to a stop?
Relevant Equations:: w=w_o+αt

6.0 rev - 1 s
1 rev - 1/6
5.0 rev - (1/6) x 5 = (5/6) s = 0.833 s

I do not know how to calculate the angular acceleration
You need a second equation since you are looking to solve two unknowns, ##\alpha## and ##t##. They give you a hint by giving you the stopping distance ##\theta##.
 
There is another equation relating angular speeds, angular acceleration and total angle. That equation does not have time in it.
 
malawi_glenn said:
There is another equation relating angular speeds, angular acceleration and total angle. That equation does not have time in it.
w^2=(w_0)^2+2αθ
how to know the total angle θ?
 
Zoubayr said:
w^2=(w_0)^2+2αθ
how to know the total angle θ?
The angle is given. It is 5 revolutions.
 
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bob012345 said:
The angle is given. It is 5 revolutions.
so by using the formula: w^2=(w_0)^2+2αθ with w_0 being 6.0 rev/s, w being zero and θ being 5 we get the answer?
 
Zoubayr said:
so by using the formula: w^2=(w_0)^2+2αθ with w_0 being 6.0 rev/s, w being zero and θ being 5 we get the answer?
One of the answers. How do you get the time next?
 
bob012345 said:
One of the answers. How do you get the time next?
using this equation: w=w_o+αt with w_0 being 6.0 rev/s, w being zero and α being the value calculated from the 1st part of the question.
 
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Zoubayr said:
using this equation: w=w_o+αt with w_0 being 6.0 rev/s, w being zero and α being the value calculated from the 1st part of the question.
Note that the acceleration is a negative number from the first part giving the time as a positive number in the second part which is good.
 
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Zoubayr said:
and θ being 5 we get the answer?
What units do we measure angles with in the context of rotational dynamics?
 

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