Conceptual Question on Net Torque

AI Thread Summary
A constant nonzero net torque on an object implies that angular position and angular velocity cannot remain constant, as they are affected by changes in angular acceleration. Angular acceleration must also be non-constant due to the relationship defined by the equation torque = I*alpha, where I (moment of inertia) is constant. Consequently, kinetic energy, which depends on both moment of inertia and angular speed, is also non-constant. The moment of inertia remains constant as it is determined by mass and distance from the axis. Therefore, the correct non-constant quantities are angular position, angular speed, angular acceleration, and kinetic energy.
klopez
Messages
21
Reaction score
0
A constant nonzero net torque is exerted on an object. Which of the following can not be constant? Choose all that apply.

-angular position
-angular velocity
-angular acceleration
-location of center of mass
-moment of inertia
-kinetic energy



My guess is that angular position and angular velocity can not be constant, but I'm not 100% sure. Can anyone help me here?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You are correct that the angular velocity and angular position cannot be constant but if those are changing, will some of the other quantities also change?

HINT:

If the angular velocity changes, what other option(s) will change?
 
Last edited:
I see, so according to the kinematics of angular properties, if angular position and angular speed is not constant, than that means that the angular acceleration is not constant either. The moment of inertia depends on Mass and distance from the axis, so since those are constants, the moment of inertia are constant right? And since kinetic energy (rotational) depends on moment of inertia (constant) and angular speed(non-constant), then kinetic energy is also not constant.

So this is my answer for the problem:

Angular Position
Angular Speed
Angular Acceleration
Kinetic Energy

Are all non-constants


***CAN ANYONE CHECK IF I'M CORRECT PLEASE?

THANKS
 
Why is angular acceleration not constant?
Do you know an equation relating angular acceleration, net torque and the moment of inertial.
 
Okay, so I think I should use this equation torque = I*alpha
Where alpha(angular acceleration) has to be constant because I is constant and the net torque is constant.

So therefore, my answer should be:

Angular Position
Angular Speed
Kinetic Energy

Are all non-constant.

Is this correct? Can anyone check this for me please?

Thanks
 
Can anyone confirm my answer above?
 
klopez said:
Can anyone confirm my answer above?

I agree with your latest answer.
 
Back
Top