At what angle θ will the cylinder of height h and radius r will tumble?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the angle θ at which a cylinder of height h and radius r will begin to tumble when tilted. The problem involves concepts from mechanics and geometry related to stability and center of gravity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the center of gravity and the supporting edge of the cylinder. There is an exploration of how to calculate the angle based on the dimensions of the cylinder and the position of the center of gravity.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the geometric relationships involved, suggesting that the angle can be determined by considering the vertical lines from the center of gravity in both the upright and tilted positions. There appears to be a shared understanding of the relationship between the dimensions of the cylinder and the angle of tilt.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of the problem as posed, focusing on the geometric interpretation without additional information or assumptions about external forces or conditions.

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1. [One of the curators at the art museum is tilting a large cylinder backward. At what angle θ will the cylinder of height h and radius r will tumble?]


3. The Attempt at a Solution [I know that the angle at which it tilts is when the cog moves beyond the supporting edge. Also, I know that length = h and width = 2r. How do I find that angle with this?]
 
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Draw vertical lines from cog when it is straight and tilted. In the second case this vertical line must pass through the supporting edge. Angle between these vertical lines is the required angle.
 
Does that leave us with tan(theta) = (2r/ h)?
 
That is right.
 

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