Electric dipole's maximum angular velocity

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The discussion revolves around calculating the maximum angular velocity (ω_max) of an electric dipole in a uniform electric field. The dipole, consisting of charges +q and -q separated by distance D, experiences torque due to the electric field, which influences its rotational motion. Participants express uncertainty about relating potential energy to kinetic energy in this context, specifically whether the potential energy described by the dipole's interaction with the electric field can be equated to the kinetic energy of rotation. The equations for dipole moment, torque, and potential energy are highlighted as crucial for solving the problem. Understanding the relationship between these energies is essential for determining ω_max when the dipole aligns with the electric field.
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Homework Statement


Consider an electric dipole located in a region with an electric field of magnitude \vec{E} pointing in the positive y direction. The positive and negative ends of the dipole have charges +q and -q, respectively, and the two charges are a distance D apart. The dipole has moment of inertia I about its center of mass. The dipole is released from angle \theta, and it is allowed to rotate freely.

What is \omega_{max}, the magnitude of the dipole's angular velocity when it is pointing along the y axis?

Homework Equations



dipole moment p= qd

\vec{\tau}=\vec{p}X\vec{E}

U= -\vec{p} \cdot\vec{E}

The Attempt at a Solution



I attempted to use energy, but I am not sure how to do it correctly - does potential energy equal kinetic? is the potential energy the one described in the above equation?
 
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dipole in a E field gives torque, torque is a force and can then be related to moment of inertia and angular acceleration
 
You can use your expression for U and (1/2)I\omega^2 for the KE.
 

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