Center of gravity of this body: y = (x^2)/a (rotated about the x-axis)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the center of gravity for a solid of revolution defined by the equation y = (x^2)/a when rotated about the x-axis. Participants are exploring the implications of this geometric setup and the relevant equations for calculating the center of gravity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to solve the problem but expresses uncertainty about the variables and the method to use. Some participants suggest using the equation for the center of gravity involving volume elements, while others clarify the meaning of certain terms like "W."

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing suggestions and clarifications. There is an acknowledgment of the need for a proper approach, and some guidance has been offered regarding the relevant equations for solids of revolution.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a lack of clarity regarding the variables and the specific equation to use, which may affect their understanding and approach to the problem.

Heexit
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Homework Statement
A homogeneous body is formed by rotating the surfaces in the image around the x-axis (see picture). Determine the location of the center of gravity.
Relevant Equations
N/A
Hello Physicsforum!

1684871079539.png


My solution (sorry for not writing it in LaTeX, I don't feel it's necessary since this try was more of a shot in the dark):
1684870996184.png


The answear should be (5/6)*a

Had no idea of how to go about solving this, so tried using the followin equaiton (I have no idea what W stands for in this case, but it can be switched out for mass/volume/area):
1684871334533.png


Any suggestions about what could have gone wrong alternatively what I should do instead would be appreciated!

Thanks on beforehand:smile:
 
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W could means weight.
 
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This is a solid of revolution. It looks like you need to use $$\bar X=\frac{\int x~ dV}{\int dV}$$where ##dV## is the volume of a disk of thickness ##dx## and radius ##y##.
 
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kuruman said:
This is a solid of revolution. It looks like you need to use $$\bar X=\frac{\int x~ dV}{\int dV}$$where ##dV## is the volume of a disk of thickness ##dx## and radius ##y##.
Thanks a lot for your help!
Here is my solution (still not in LaTeX!):
1684875471699.png
 
Looks OK even though not in LaTeX. Your letter ex in places looks a bit like the Greek letter alpha and that could be confusing.
 
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