Calculating Kinetic Energy of a Rotational System with a Hanging Weight

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the kinetic energy of a rotational system consisting of a uniform disk and a hanging weight. The disk has a mass of 15 kg and a radius of 0.25 m, while the hanging weight is 5 kg. The system is released from rest, and the question focuses on the kinetic energy when the weight is moving at a speed of 1.7 m/s.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of kinetic energy for both the disk and the hanging weight, referencing relevant equations for rotational motion and kinetic energy. There is an attempt to identify errors in the original poster's calculations, particularly regarding the moment of inertia for the disk.

Discussion Status

The discussion has highlighted a potential error in the original poster's approach to calculating the moment of inertia. Some participants have provided guidance on the correct formula for the disk's rotational inertia, suggesting that the original poster reconsider their calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster's answer was incorrect, and there is an emphasis on ensuring the correct application of the moment of inertia formula for a uniform disk. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify concepts without reaching a final resolution.

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Homework Statement



A 15 kg uniform disk of radius R = 0.25 m has a string wrapped around it, and a m = 5 kg weight is hanging on the string. The system of the weight and disk is released from rest.

a) When the 5 kg weight is moving with a speed of 1.7 m/s, what is the kinetic energy of the entire system?

Homework Equations



v=[tex]\omega[/tex]R

I=[tex]\Sigma[/tex](m)(r)2

KE=(.5)(I)([tex]\omega[/tex])2

KEtotal = KEwheel + KEweight

The Attempt at a Solution



KE(wheel) = (.5)((15)(.25)2)((1.7)/(.25))2 = 21.675

+

KE(weight) = (.5)(5)(1.7)2 = 7.225

= 28.9 [This answer is incorrect though, I'm unsure as to what I'm doing incorrectly.]

Any help is much appreciated, thanks! :)
 
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Hi CaptainSFS,

CaptainSFS said:

Homework Statement



A 15 kg uniform disk of radius R = 0.25 m has a string wrapped around it, and a m = 5 kg weight is hanging on the string. The system of the weight and disk is released from rest.

a) When the 5 kg weight is moving with a speed of 1.7 m/s, what is the kinetic energy of the entire system?

Homework Equations



v=[tex]\omega[/tex]R

I=[tex]\Sigma[/tex](m)(r)2

KE=(.5)(I)([tex]\omega[/tex])2

KEtotal = KEwheel + KEweight

The Attempt at a Solution



KE(wheel) = (.5)((15)(.25)2)((1.7)/(.25))2 = 21.675

This line is incorrect. It is saying that the rotational inertia I for this uniform disk is mr2, which is not true. There should be a table in your book that gives the formula for I for different shapes.
 
Thanks, :P. It needed that constant for a disk (1/2). Thanks for your help. :)
 
Glad to help!
 

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