How do you calculate the average angular acceleration of a spinning wheel?

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SUMMARY

The average angular acceleration of a spinning wheel transitioning from 43 RPM to 62 RPM over 15 seconds is calculated using the formula α = Δω / t. The change in angular velocity (Δω) is determined by converting the RPM values to radians per second, resulting in a Δω of approximately 1.3 * 10^-1 rad/s². Additionally, the angular momentum (L) must be calculated as a vector, and the change in angular momentum should be derived through vector subtraction before equating it to I * α.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular velocity and its conversion from RPM to radians per second
  • Familiarity with the concept of angular acceleration
  • Knowledge of angular momentum and its vector nature
  • Basic proficiency in vector subtraction and equations of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conversion of RPM to radians per second for angular velocity calculations
  • Learn about the relationship between angular momentum and angular acceleration
  • Explore vector calculus as it applies to physics problems involving rotation
  • Investigate the moment of inertia (I) and its role in rotational dynamics
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Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone studying rotational dynamics will benefit from this discussion on calculating angular acceleration and understanding the principles of angular momentum.

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Homework Statement



A wheel is spinning at 43rpm with its spin axis vertical. After 15s , it's spinning at 62rpm with its axis horizontal. Find (a) the magnitude of its average angular acceleration.

ans:______rad/s/s

Homework Equations



[tex]\alpha[/tex] = [tex]\varpi[/tex] /t

attempt :

change in omega is 2pi/60 (62-43)
t = 15
so divide them to get rad/s/s
=
1.3 * 10^-1
 
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First of all find the angular momentum L.
Then find the rate of change of angular momentum.
Note that L is a vector.So when you find change in L, you have to use vector subtraction. Finally equate it to I*alpha.
 

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