Find the diameter of a circle given linear velocity?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the diameter of a circular object based on its linear velocity, specifically through a problem involving a ride at an amusement park. Participants explore the relationship between linear velocity and angular velocity, and how to apply these concepts to solve for diameter.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a problem involving a Ferris Wheel and the Super Circle Swings, seeking help to find the diameter given the linear velocity.
  • Another participant suggests using the formula \( v = \omega r \) and questions how to find \( \omega \), recommending a conversion of units from mph to ft/min.
  • A third participant provides a formula to solve for radius \( r \) and subsequently diameter \( d \), showing the calculations for converting linear velocity and angular velocity.
  • Some participants express frustration with the unit conversion system, questioning the practicality of using factors like 88 in calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach to use the relationship between linear and angular velocity, but there is no consensus on the unit conversion methods or the practicality of the measurement systems being used.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the unit conversions and the implications of using different measurement systems, which may affect the calculations presented.

fluffertoes
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[SOLVED] Find the diameter of a circle given linear velocity?

Hello all! I need help with a certain type of problem. I do not know how I can find the diameter of a circular object given it's linear velocity. Here is an example problem, and I would love any explanation you could give me! Thanks! :))

Leaving the Ferris Wheel, Daniel sees his friend, Jenna, riding the Super Circle Swings. As he watches, she goes around 10 times in one minute. The sign on the ride claims that the swings travel 19mph. What is the diameter of the ride if the sign is correct?
 
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fluffertoes said:
Hello all! I need help with a certain type of problem. I do not know how I can find the diameter of a circular object given it's linear velocity. Here is an example problem, and I would love any explanation you could give me! Thanks! :))

Leaving the Ferris Wheel, Daniel sees his friend, Jenna, riding the Super Circle Swings. As he watches, she goes around 10 times in one minute. The sign on the ride claims that the swings travel 19mph. What is the diameter of the ride if the sign is correct?
Hint: [math]v = \omega r[/math]

How do you find [math]\omega[/math] ? I'd advised changing the 19 mi/h to ft/min.

-Dan
 
topsquark said:
Hint: [math]v = \omega r[/math]

How do you find [math]\omega[/math] ? I'd advised changing the 19 mi/h to ft/min.

-Dan

Oh my, are people ever going to switch to a system, not necessarily the metric system, that doesn't require a factor or divisor of, say, 88? (Wondering)
 
I like Serena said:
Oh my, are people ever going to switch to a system, not necessarily the metric system, that doesn't require a factor or divisor of, say, 88? (Wondering)

I really just don't know what to do...
 
Let's begin by taking the formula Dan provided, and solve for $r$:

$$r=\frac{v}{\omega}$$

Now, we know the radius $r$ is half the diameter $d$:

$$d=\frac{2v}{\omega}$$

We are given:

$$v=19\text{ mph}\cdot\frac{5280\text{ ft}}{1\text{ mi}}\cdot\frac{1\text{ hr}}{60\text{ min}}=1672\,\frac{\text{ft}}{\text{min}}$$

Now we need to turn 10 revolutions per minutes into an angular velocity given in radians (dimensionless) per minute:

$$\omega=10\,\frac{\text{rev}}{\text{min}}\cdot\frac{2\pi}{1\text{ rev}}=20\pi\,\frac{1}{\text{min}}$$

So, plug in these values...what do you get for $d$?
 
I like Serena said:
Oh my, are people ever going to switch to a system, not necessarily the metric system, that doesn't require a factor or divisor of, say, 88? (Wondering)
Hey, you're preaching to the choir. But, given the units, I figure the answer will be in ft.

-Dan
 

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