Angular speed of a disk, given a force

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a uniform-density disk subjected to a force applied through a string, with the goal of determining its angular speed after being pulled a certain distance. The context includes concepts from rotational dynamics and energy conservation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between torque and angular acceleration, referencing relevant equations. There is an exploration of the implications of the force applied and the distance over which it acts. Some participants express uncertainty about the interpretation of the problem statement.

Discussion Status

The discussion has seen attempts to equate rotational kinetic energy with work done, and some participants have provided equations to clarify the relationship between torque and angular velocity. While there are differing interpretations, guidance has been offered to refocus on solving for angular velocity rather than period.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through the implications of the problem's wording and the application of the work-energy theorem. There is acknowledgment of confusion regarding the initial setup and calculations, but no consensus has been reached on a definitive solution.

zalnas
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Homework Statement


A uniform-density 7 kg disk of radius 0.27 m is mounted on a nearly frictionless axle. Initially it is not spinning. A string is wrapped tightly around the disk, and you pull on the string with a constant force of 45 N through a distance of 0.9 m. Now what is the angular speed?



Homework Equations


Krot = .5*I*omega2
Idisk = .5*m*R2
K = .5*m*v2
where I is the moment of intertia



The Attempt at a Solution



I've attempted setting Krot equal to the force applied times the distance over which it is applied. I then plugged in I using the given information, and solved for the period from the Krot equation.
 
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I think it will help you to realize a couple equations relating to torque

\tau = I \frac{d \omega}{dt}
\tau = \mathbf{r} \times \mathbf{F}

Though I am not entirely sure what the problem means by "and you pull on the string with a constant force of 45 N through a distance of 0.9 m" maybe you will and you will be on your way ;)
 
Thanks for the reply.

I tried setting the two equal:
.5*7*.272 d\omega/dt = .27*45

Which yielded 47.62 m/s. However, that isn't the correct answer.
 
Oh wait, my bad, I know what the line is alluding to now. Sorry for leading you astray. Yeah, you had the right idea before.

W=Fd
Krot=.5I\omega^2

Work energy theorem ought to work pretty well here. Seems you did that, so why did you solve for the period? Solve for angular velocity.
 
Ah, I'm not sure why I solved for the period. I got the correct answer, thank you very much!
 

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