Cylinder rolling with a block inside it

In summary, the conversation discusses the need for a small block to remain in place on a rotating cylinder, considering the forces of rotation and gravity. The goal is to find the worst conditions where the rotating force is slightly greater than the force of gravity. It is possible to use a rotating frame of reference, but the direction of gravity will constantly change. However, this may or may not help the block stay in place. The focus is on studying the worst situations for both scenarios.
  • #1
IamVector
98
9
Homework Statement
A cylinder with radius R spins around its axis with an
angular speed ω. On its inner surface there lies a small block;

the coefficient of friction between the block and the inner sur-
face of the cylinder is μ. Find the values of ω for which the

block does not slip (stays still with respect to the cylinder).

Consider the cases where (a) the axis of the cylinder is hori-
zontal; (b) the axis is inclined by angle α with respect to the

horizon.
Relevant Equations
so I as it is in rotation
it will experience centripetal force
and required angle for a object not to slip = tanμ
so I expressed cos and sin in it and got this relation
mω²rμ +mg(μ/√μ²+1) =mg(μ/√μ²+1)
but this is irrelevant for finding ω .
Capture.PNG
 
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  • #2
We need the small block to remain where it is respect to the rotating cylinder.
Taking the ground as reference: the magnitude of the force associate to rotation remains constant, but its direction constantly changes, while the force associate to gravity always points downwards.
We need to find out the worst condition (both forces oppose each other), making the cylinder spin fast enough as to keep rotation force being at least slightly greater than gravity force for that worst condition.
That applies to each degree of tilting of the cylinder ( (a) the axis of the cylinder is hori-
zontal; (b) the axis is inclined by angle α with respect to the horizon).
 
  • #3
Lnewqban said:
We need the small block to remain where it is respect to the rotating cylinder.
Taking the ground as reference: the magnitude of the force associate to rotation remains constant, but its direction constantly changes, while the force associate to gravity always points downwards.
We need to find out the worst condition (both forces oppose each other), making the cylinder spin fast enough as to keep rotation force being at least slightly greater than gravity force for that worst condition.
can I take rotating frame of reference??
 
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  • #4
IamVector said:
can I take rotating frame of reference??
but doing so will change the direction of gravity respect to cylinder i think.
 
  • #5
IamVector said:
can I take rotating frame of reference??
Of course you can.
But remember, we only need to study the worst situations for both cases (analogy: top inverted position of a car in a roller coster).
 
  • #6
Lnewqban said:
Of course you can.
But remember, we only need to study the worst situations for both cases.
wont the direction of gravity be changing constantly?
 
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  • #7
IamVector said:
wont the direction of gravity be changing constantly?
Yes, but sometimes it will help the small block to stay put, sometimes it will not.
 

1. What is the purpose of studying cylinder rolling with a block inside it?

The study of cylinder rolling with a block inside it is important in understanding the principles of rotational motion and how objects move in a curved path. It also has practical applications in engineering and mechanics, such as in the design of wheels and gears.

2. How does the presence of a block inside the cylinder affect its rolling motion?

The block inside the cylinder changes the distribution of mass, causing the cylinder to roll in a non-uniform manner. This deviation from pure rolling motion is known as the "rolling resistance" and can be calculated using the dimensions and mass of the block and cylinder.

3. What factors affect the speed and distance traveled by the cylinder with a block inside it?

The speed and distance traveled by the cylinder with a block inside it are influenced by various factors such as the mass and dimensions of the block and cylinder, the coefficient of rolling friction between the two surfaces, and the initial velocity and angle of the cylinder's motion.

4. How does the shape of the block inside the cylinder affect its rolling motion?

The shape of the block inside the cylinder can greatly impact its rolling motion. A block with a larger surface area in contact with the cylinder will create more friction and slow down the rolling motion, while a block with a smaller surface area will have less friction and allow for faster rolling.

5. Can the cylinder's rolling motion be affected by the position of the block inside it?

Yes, the position of the block inside the cylinder can affect its rolling motion. Placing the block closer to the edge of the cylinder will create a larger moment of inertia and cause the cylinder to roll slower, while placing the block closer to the center will reduce the moment of inertia and allow for faster rolling.

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