Calculating moment of inertia of a system of balls

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the moment of inertia for a system of three identical balls arranged in an equilateral triangle, with specific dimensions provided. The moment of inertia for each ball is initially calculated using the formula I = 2/5 * m * r^2, but the distance from the axis of rotation must also be considered. The center of mass of the triangle is determined to be 1/3 * √3 * a from the axis, leading to the application of the parallel axis theorem. The final moment of inertia for the system is derived by summing the contributions from each ball, factoring in both their individual moments and their distances from the axis. The discussion concludes with a confirmation that the calculations align with the principles of moment of inertia for a system of rigid bodies.
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(Resolved)Calculating moment of inertia of a system of balls

I have a bit hard time calculating moment of inertia of a a system of balls. The system is defined as follows: 3 balls that are the same are connected with thin rods soo that the center of each ball is in the corners of a equilateral triangle with length of side to be 0.3 m. Radius of each ball is 0,08 m and mass of each ball is 1,2 kg. Now the fun part: Calculate moment of inertia of the system if the axis of rotation goes trught the center of mass of the equilateral triangle. I of ball is 2/5*m*r^2.
I am puzzled. I know that the center of mass for a equilateral triangle is in 2/3 of its height. Soo each ball is exacly 1/3*Sqrt(3)*a -> 1/3*Sqrt(3)*0,3m away from the axis of rotation. I would simply say that the moment of inertia I = Sigma(m*r^2). I of each ball is I of b = m*(1/3*Sqrt(3)*a)^2 = 1.2 kg * 1/9 * 3 * 0.09 m^2. And then the moment of inertia of the system is simply I of system = 3 times I of ball. I am missing something. Since the radious is also given. I would apprichiate greately if somebody would explain the reasoning behind this problem and also if possible the path to solution.
 
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Go through the parallel axis theorem of M.I.
The ball is not a point mass.
 
Ah...
The Moment of inertia of the ball is I = 2/5*mass*radius^2 + mass*distance from the axis of the system^2. And the moment of inertia of the system if 3 times of that of single ball?
 
looks good !
 
Ok, Thanks!
 
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