Counter rotation theory problem

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SUMMARY

The counter rotation theory problem involves a meter stick placed on two counter-rotating wheels, with the left wheel rotating clockwise and the right wheel counter-clockwise. The initial position of the meter stick is off-center to the right. The discussion concludes that the meter stick will not remain stationary due to the friction between the stick and the wheels, leading to the stick being sent off the wheels to the right. Experimental attempts confirm that when the stick is centered, it remains stationary, but when off-center, it falls due to the imbalance created by the wheel rotations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rotational motion dynamics
  • Knowledge of frictional forces and their effects on motion
  • Basic principles of equilibrium and balance
  • Familiarity with experimental physics methods
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the principles of rotational dynamics in physics
  • Research the effects of friction in rotational systems
  • Study equilibrium conditions for rigid bodies
  • Conduct experiments with varying wheel speeds and positions of objects
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to illustrate concepts of rotational motion and friction in practical scenarios.

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Homework Statement


A meter stick rests on two counter-rotating wheels. The left wheel rotates clockwise while the right wheel rotates counter-clockwise. There is friction between the meterstick and each wheel. The meter stick begins off-center to the right. What is the resulting motion of the meter stick?

The Attempt at a Solution



Wouldn't the meter stick simply just not move because the two wheel velocity cancel one another? but I got it wrong.


would it be The stick will be sent off the wheels to the right?
because the stick was off-center to the right at first?

or would it be The stick will oscillate back and forth?
or Nothing can be said about the stick's motion?
or The stick will be sent off the wheels to the left?

I'm quite confused
 
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If the wheels rotated slowly the stick would be balanced between the wheels. Make the following to prove it to yourself,
 

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Spinnor said:
If the wheels rotated slowly the stick would be balanced between the wheels. Make the following to prove it to yourself,

i tried to do the experiment, but it simply won't work because when i put the ruler off-centered to the right the ruler keep falling. however, i tried to do it when the ruler is centered, and the result is that the ruler doesn't move anywhere if i rotate both of the wheels with same speed. which means that the ruler stays on the same spot, but again it's not the answer.
 

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