Angular Momentum Problem (from Giancoli)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the critical angular speed, ωC, of a cue ball on a billiards table using the principles of angular momentum conservation. The derived formula for ωC is ωC = 5v0r/2R², where v0 is the center-of-mass speed, r is the distance from the origin, and R is the radius of the billiards ball. The solution manual simplifies this to ωC = 5v0/2R, leading to confusion regarding the relationship between r and R. The participants clarify that r represents the perpendicular distance from the origin, which is equal to R in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum concepts, specifically L = Iω.
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion in rotational dynamics.
  • Knowledge of kinetic friction and its effects on motion.
  • Basic principles of conservation laws in physics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of angular momentum equations in rotational dynamics.
  • Explore the relationship between linear and angular motion in physics.
  • Investigate the effects of friction on rolling and sliding objects.
  • Learn about the moment of inertia for different shapes and its applications.
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators and tutors looking to clarify concepts related to angular momentum and rotational dynamics.

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Homework Statement



On a level billiards table a cue ball, initially at rest at point O on the table, is struck so that it leaves the cue stick with a center-of-mass speed v0 and a "reverse" spin of angular speed w0. A kinetic friction force acts on the ball as it initially skids across the table. Using conservation of angular momentum, find the critical angular speed, ωC, such that if ω0 = ωC, kinetic friction brings the ball to a complete stop.

Homework Equations



L = r x p , L = Iω , and L = spin angular momentum + orbital angular momentum

The Attempt at a Solution



using L = spin angular momentum + orbital angular momentum (derived earlier), L = (2/5mR2)ωC - mv0r, where r is the distance from the origin, O, and R is the radius of the billiards ball. L is constant because no net external torque acts on the ball after it is hit, so i can solver for ωC: ωC = 5v0r/2R2.

I checked the solution in the solutions manual, and it is reduced to 5v0/2R. I do not know why r = R, or orbital angular momentum depends on the radius of the ball, rather than the distance from the origin.

Thanks in advance.
 
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bobblo said:

The Attempt at a Solution



using L = spin angular momentum + orbital angular momentum (derived earlier), L = (2/5mR2)ωC - mv0r, where r is the distance from the origin, O, and R is the radius of the billiards ball. L is constant because no net external torque acts on the ball after it is hit, so i can solver for ωC: ωC = 5v0r/2R2.

I checked the solution in the solutions manual, and it is reduced to 5v0/2R. I do not know why r = R, or orbital angular momentum depends on the radius of the ball, rather than the distance from the origin.

Thanks in advance.

r = perpendicular distance from the origin
 

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