How Do You Calculate Angular Momentum for a Rotating Rigid Body?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating angular momentum for a rigid body composed of a circular hoop and a square structure, focusing on determining the rotational inertia and angular momentum based on given parameters.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the calculation of rotational inertia using standard formulas and the parallel axis theorem. There is a discussion about the application of the perpendicular axis theorem for the hoop and the square structure. Some participants express uncertainty regarding their calculations and seek clarification on the correct approach.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to calculate the rotational inertia and angular momentum, with some participants providing guidance on using established theorems for rigid bodies. There is a mix of approaches being explored, and while one participant indicates they have resolved their issue, the overall consensus on the method remains unclear.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of a homework assignment, which may limit the information they can share or the methods they can use. There is an emphasis on using specific theorems for calculating rotational inertia.

math_head7
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Angular Momentum Question?

Homework Statement


Figure 11-45 (attached) shows a rigid structure consisting of a circular hoop of radius R and mass m, and a square made of four thin bars, each of length R and mass m. The rigid structure rotates at a constant speed about a vertical axis, with a period of rotation of 2.5s. Assuming R=0.50m and m=
2.0kg, calculate (a) the structure's rotational inertia about the axis of rotation and (b) its angular momentum about that axis.

Homework Equations


I=[tex]\int[/tex]r2dm
L=I[tex]\omega[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


(a) I did mr2 = (10)(.5)2 = 2.5 (the answer is supposed to be 1.6
Then I tried msrs2 + mcrc2 = (8)(.25)2 + (2)(.5)2 = 1.5 (still incorrect)

(b) Due to not being able to solve "a" I could not began my attempt on "b"
 

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math_head7 said:
(a) I did mr2 = (10)(.5)2 = 2.5 (the answer is supposed to be 1.6
Then I tried msrs2 + mcrc2 = (8)(.25)2 + (2)(.5)2 = 1.5 (still incorrect)
Not sure what you're doing here. The thin rods and the hoop are standard shapes--you can look up their rotational inertia. (You'll need to use the parallel axis theorem.)
 


first find I of hoop along any diameter using perpendicular axis theorem and then use parallel axis theorem to find I along axis of rotation
do same for square

then just simply add their I
 


Thanks. I got it.
 

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