How to Find Angular Acceleration of a Seesaw?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the angular acceleration of a seesaw with specific lengths and masses. Given the lengths L1 = 0.990 m, L2 = 1.78 m, and masses m1 = 4.40 kg and m2 = 2.35 kg, the torque was calculated as 1.6954 N*m using the formula torque = L1*m1*g - L2*m2*g. The main challenge identified is determining the moment of inertia (I) for the system. The solution suggests using the basic definition of I for point masses, clarifying the mass distribution on the seesaw.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of torque and its calculation
  • Knowledge of angular acceleration and its relationship with torque
  • Familiarity with moment of inertia (I) for point masses
  • Basic principles of physics related to rotational motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the calculation of moment of inertia for point masses in rotational dynamics
  • Learn about the relationship between torque, angular acceleration, and moment of inertia
  • Explore examples of seesaw problems in physics to reinforce concepts
  • Review the principles of mass distribution and its effect on rotational motion
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding rotational dynamics and torque calculations in practical scenarios.

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Homework Statement



There is a seesaw. The pivot point is closer to the left side than the right side. Let`s call the left length of the beam L1 and the mass on the left side m1. The right sideof the beam is L2 and the mass is m2. Information is L1 = 0.990 m, L2 = 1.78m, m1 = 4.40 kg, and m2 = 2.35 kg. You need to find angular acceleration.

Homework Equations



torque=I(alpha) alpha is angular acceleration and I have calculated the torque below.

The Attempt at a Solution



So I`ve calculated torque doing L1m1g-L2m2g and found it to be roughly 1.6954 N*m.
My problem is that I have no idea how to find I in this situation. I`ve read that section of my textbook several times and it just makes no sense to me.
I appreciate and hints or help. Thank you in advance! :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
How is the mass distributed? Is mass 1 concentrated at the left end of the beam, and mass 2 distributed at the right end? If so, then just use the basic definition of I for point masses.
 

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