Contradiction between equations of angular momentum

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the contradiction in angular momentum equations when analyzing a disk subjected to equal, opposite forces. Two equations yield different angular accelerations, raising questions about their validity. The first equation, which is based on a static point, is deemed correct, while the second is considered incorrect due to its failure to account for acceleration around point B. Participants emphasize the importance of using the center of mass for calculations and clarify that certain equations apply only when the point of rotation remains fixed. The conversation highlights the complexities of applying angular momentum principles in dynamic systems.
Karol
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Homework Statement


Two equal, parallel and opposite forces at at both sides of a horizontal disk that lies on a smooth table, according to the picture.
The mass is m and the moment of inertia is: kmR2
Angular momentum round the center point A:
2FR=kmR^2 \cdot \alpha.
Angular momentum round the point B on the outer edge:
2FR=mR^2(k+1) \cdot \alpha.
It is clear i will get 2 different angular acceleration \alpha, how come?

Homework Equations


M=I\alpha
Shteiner's theorem of the parallel axis:
Ib=Ic+mb2

The Attempt at a Solution


It is clear that the second equation is wrong, since the first one is right, since it is round a static point.
Maybe i have to compensate, when calculating round point B, for it's acceleration?
How? maybe with D'alamber's sentence?
But then, can i solve only from the point of view of the accelerating system?
I want to solve from the static, inertial system.
 

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Hi Karol! :smile:

LP = IPω only works if P is the centre of mass or the centre of rotation.

From the PF Library on angular momentum

about point P, where \mathbf{v}_P is the velocity of the part of the body at position P:

\mathbf{L}_{P}\ =\ \tilde{I}_{P}\mathbf{\omega}\ +\ m(\mathbf{r}_{c.o.m.}-\mathbf{r}_P)\times\mathbf{v}_P​
 
And what if the center of rotation is itself under acceleration?
For example the new picture here.
Can i use L=I\alpha around point B?
A rope is wound around a falling cylinder.
 

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that equation is for a fixed point P,

and vP is the velocity of the (changing) point on the body that happens to be at P

(so no question of P accelerating :wink:)
Can i use L=Iα around point B?

(you mean L = Iω) yes :smile:

but a moment later, B will no longer be the centre of rotation, so you'll have problems finding dL/dt …

it'll be much easier to use the centre of mass! :wink:
 
I want to make clear when to use equation:
\mathbf{L}_P\ =\ I_{c.o.m.}\,\mathbf{\omega}\,+\, \mathbf{r}_{c.o.m.}\times m\mathbf{v}_{c.o.m.}
You have a disk rotating round point A, as in the picture.
Round points A, the center and point B:
L_A=mR^2(k+1) \cdot \omega
L_{Center}=kmR^2 \cdot \omega
L_B=kmR^2 \cdot \omega \,+\, mR\cdot\sqrt{2}R \cdot \omega

About B i am confused, since i don't understand the transition between the equations:
\mathbf{L}_{P}\ =\ \tilde{I}_{P}\mathbf{\omega}\ +\ m(\mathbf{r}_{c.o.m.}-\mathbf{r}_P)\times\mathbf{v}_P
And:
=\ \tilde{I}_{c.o.m.}\mathbf{\omega}\ +\ m(\mathbf{r}_{c.o.m.}-\mathbf{r}_P)\times\mathbf{v}_{c.o.m.}
In the first we use the moment of inertia and velocity of the moving point P, and in the second-of the center of mass.
 

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Last edited:
my computer won't open that .bmp, it says it's corrupt :redface:
 
I replaced
 
Hi Karol! :smile:

I'm sorry for the delay … I've been working this out! :redface:

Karol said:
About B i am confused, since i don't understand the transition between the equations:
\mathbf{L}_{P}\ =\ \tilde{I}_{P}\mathbf{\omega}\ +\ m(\mathbf{r}_{c.o.m.}-\mathbf{r}_P)\times\mathbf{v}_P
And:
=\ \tilde{I}_{c.o.m.}\mathbf{\omega}\ +\ m(\mathbf{r}_{c.o.m.}-\mathbf{r}_P)\times\mathbf{v}_{c.o.m.}
In the first we use the moment of inertia and velocity of the moving point P, and in the second-of the center of mass.

You're right :smile:, that first equation is far too general

it only applies if P is the centre of rotation and if the axis of rotation stays parallel to a principal axis of the body.

(So this applies, for example, to a sphere or a cylinder rolling over a step, but not to a cone rolling on a plane, or a wheel rolling on a curved rail.)

Thanks for pointing this out. :smile:

I've now corrected the Library entry (and given you the credit!).​
 
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