Center of mass of physical pendulum

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the center of mass and the period of oscillation for a physical pendulum consisting of a uniform disk and a rod. The rotational inertia of the pendulum was correctly calculated as 0.205 kg*m² using the parallel axis theorem. The distance between the pivot point and the center of mass was determined to be 0.477 m. The period of oscillation can be calculated using the formula T=2π(sqrt(I/(mgh))) once the center of mass is established.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rotational inertia and the parallel axis theorem
  • Knowledge of center of mass calculations for composite objects
  • Familiarity with the formula for the period of oscillation of a pendulum
  • Basic principles of physics related to pendulums and oscillatory motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply the center of mass formula for composite bodies
  • Study the derivation and application of the parallel axis theorem
  • Explore the effects of mass distribution on the period of oscillation
  • Investigate advanced pendulum dynamics, including damping effects
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone involved in mechanics or dynamics, particularly those studying oscillatory systems and pendulum behavior.

burianek
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Homework Statement


A pendulum consists of a uniform disk with radius r=0.100m and mass 0.500 kg attached to the end of a uniform rod with length L=0.500 m and m 0.250 kg. It pivots at the other end of the rod. a) Calculate the rotational inertia of the pendulum about the pivot point. b) What is the distance between the pivot point and the center of mass of the pendulum? c)Calculate the period of oscillation


Homework Equations


I=Icom+mh^2
T=2pi(sqrt(I/(mgh)))


The Attempt at a Solution



I got the first part using the parallel axis theorum for both the disk and the rod and adding them together. I=0.205 kg*m^2 (checked, correct).
I can't figure out how to get the distance between the pivot point without having the period. I tried setting I=mL^2 and solving for L, but this was incorrect. The correct answer is 0.477 m. I can get part c) once I have some clues to b. I'm completely lost. Please help!
 
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So I take it no one else can figure this one out either?
 
burianek said:

Homework Statement


A pendulum consists of a uniform disk with radius r=0.100m and mass 0.500 kg attached to the end of a uniform rod with length L=0.500 m and m 0.250 kg. It pivots at the other end of the rod. a) Calculate the rotational inertia of the pendulum about the pivot point. b) What is the distance between the pivot point and the center of mass of the pendulum? c)Calculate the period of oscillation


Homework Equations


I=Icom+mh^2
T=2pi(sqrt(I/(mgh)))


The Attempt at a Solution



I got the first part using the parallel axis theorum for both the disk and the rod and adding them together. I=0.205 kg*m^2 (checked, correct).
I can't figure out how to get the distance between the pivot point without having the period. I tried setting I=mL^2 and solving for L, but this was incorrect. The correct answer is 0.477 m. I can get part c) once I have some clues to b. I'm completely lost. Please help!

Where is the center of mass of the disk? Where is it for the rod? Once you have those two, you can use the standard center of mass formula to find the center of mass of the entire object.
 

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