Angular momentum to linear velocity

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving angular momentum and linear velocity, specifically calculating the bullet's speed before impact in a block-rod-bullet system. The user successfully completed Part A but struggled with Part B, needing clarification on unit conversion and the correct application of formulas. Key points include the importance of understanding the distinction between linear and angular momentum, as well as the correct use of the equation MV=Iw. Ultimately, the user resolved their issue by realizing they needed to divide the angular speed by the radius to convert units properly. The conversation emphasizes the significance of accurate unit conversion in physics calculations.
chiefjslay
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Im stuck on this problem and I've gotten to the point where I am just staring at my computer, so I figured Id give you guys a go at it.

I got Part A which was fairly simple. But I've tried everything but can't seem to get Part B. I must be missing something. This is one of those online assignments where you get as many attempts as you want. I keep getting Part A, but can't get Part B. Please explain how you did Part B if you get it. I have the correct answers too.

In Fig. 11-52, a 7.3 g bullet is fired into a 0.46 kg block attached to the end of a 0.12 m nonuniform rod of mass 0.88 kg. The block-rod-bullet system then rotates in the plane of the figure, about a fixed axis at A. The rotational inertia of the rod alone about A is 0.038 kg·m2. Treat the block as a particle. (a) What then is the rotational inertia of the block-rod-bullet system about point A? (b) If the angular speed of the system about A just after impact is 7.2 rad/s, what is the bullet's speed just before impact?

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anybody have any hints? I know about conservation of momentum. And I know MV=Iw. I am pretty sure I need to convert units of w to m/s but I don't think I am doing it right.
 
Remember the angular momentum of a point mass about an axis is simply the linear momentum times the distance from the axis, i.e. p*r = mvr.

The block and the bullet are point masses. Can you proceed ?
 
Nevermind I figured it out. It was a stupid error on my part. I simply had to divide the rad/s by the radius to get the correct units.
 
Thanks for helping though, Curious
 
chiefjslay said:
anybody have any hints? I know about conservation of momentum. And I know MV=Iw. I am pretty sure I need to convert units of w to m/s but I don't think I am doing it right.

Have a care. You may be able to get the right answer by converting units, but the equation MV=Iw is incorrect as it stands. You cannot equate linear and angular momentum. They have different units. What you have done in "converting units" is change your equation (to the correct one, if I am guessing correctly.) Make sure you know what this equation is and how to use it!

-Dan
 
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