How fast is the edge of the yo-yo spinning in mph

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving the calculation of the linear speed of the edge of a yo-yo based on its diameter and rotational speed. The subject area includes concepts from trigonometry, angular velocity, and linear motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between radius, angular velocity, and linear speed, with attempts to apply relevant equations. There is a focus on identifying potential errors in calculations and definitions, particularly regarding the radius and angular velocity.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the calculations and correct a typo that affected the results. Some participants suggest re-evaluating the definitions and conversions used in the problem. There is an acknowledgment of the oversight, but no consensus on the final answer has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of careful calculations and the potential for simple errors to lead to incorrect conclusions. The problem is framed within the constraints of a homework assignment, emphasizing the need for accuracy in mathematical reasoning.

Vital
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Homework Statement


Hello!
I am trying to solve the exercise, but I don't see my mistakes - I can't come up with a correct answer.
The exercise from the begging of trigonometry, so it has to be solved using concepts of a speed and angular velocity.

A yo-yo which is 2.25 inches in diameter spins at a rate of 4500 revolutions per minute. How

fast is the edge of the yo-yo spinning in miles per hour? Round your answer to two decimal

places.

Homework Equations


Here is how I am trying to solve it:
v = r x w,
where v is the speed, r radius, w is the average angular velocity, which equals to

w = 2π x f, where f is the frequency of revolutions and equals to number of revolutions / time

The Attempt at a Solution


Putting it all together I get:

r = 2.250 / 2 = 1.225
number of revolutions in one hour 4500 х 60 = 270 000
w = 2π × 270 000 = 1 695 600
v = 1.225 x 1 695 600 = 2 077 110 inches in one hour

Convert to miles:
2 077 110 / 63 360 = 32.78 miles per hour

But it should be 30.12 miles per hour.

Please, help me to find my mistake.
Thank you!
 
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Hello Vital, :welcome:

It is always a good idea to estimate answers before typing them in on a calculator
But in this case it may have been a simple oversight ?
Vital said:
r = 2.250 / 2 = 1.225
No it is not.
 
BvU said:
Hello Vital, :welcome:

It is always a good idea to estimate answers before typing them in on a calculator
But in this case it may have been a simple oversight ?
No it is not.

Oh! Yes. It is a typo, which has gone through all calculations. And I actually do this type of calculations manually (some in mind, and others, with bigger numbers, on paper).
Thank you very much. Indeed an awkward situation. :)
 
New PF member has been reminded not to post solutions to homework. This thread is over a year old, though, so their soltuion will be left visible.
Hello Vital,

Some typo error could be quite annoying, it would be good for others if we could make some corrections to your solution.
I made some definition to some numbers in the question as to make simple.

v = r * ω
v = r * θ/t
v = linear velocity
r = radius
t = time

ω = 4500 revolution per minute
1 minute = 1/60 hour
ω = θ / t
ω = angular velocity

ω = 4500 * 2π radians / 1/60 hour = 540,000 π radians/hour
ω = 540,000 * 3.14 = 1,695,600

d = 2.25 inches
r = d/2 = 2.25/2 = 1.125 inches
63360 inches = 1 mile

r = 1.125/ 63360 miles

linear velocity = r * ω = 1.125/63360 * 1695600 = 1.125 * 26.764 = 30.12

Thank you
 

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