How to Find Angular Momentum from Time-Dependent Torque?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the angular momentum of an object subjected to a time-dependent torque described by the equation τ = a + bsin(ct). The object starts from rest and is free to rotate, with the torque applied at t = 0.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the setup of the integral for angular momentum and question the limits of integration. There is uncertainty about how to approach the problem, with some suggesting the need to integrate from 0 to a specific time t rather than to infinity.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on setting up the integral correctly and have discussed the nature of the integral involved. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of integrating over different limits and the distinction between improper and definite integrals.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem involves assumptions about the initial conditions, specifically that the object is initially at rest, which influences the calculation of angular momentum. There is also mention of a hypothetical scenario where a force, rather than torque, is applied, prompting further discussion on integration methods.

Calam1tous
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Homework Statement



A time-dependent torque given by a + bsin(ct) is applied to an object that's initially stationary but is free to rotate. Here a, b, and c are constants. Find an expression for the object's angular momentum as a function of time, assuming the torque is first applied at t = 0.

Homework Equations



∫a +bsin(ct) (from 0 to infinity )
τ = dL / dT

The Attempt at a Solution



Not really sure where to start, since I really don't have much experience with these types of problems. I think that this is an infinite integral problem, at least, since it only defines one point in time. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks!
 
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This is late and may be of no use. Suppose the problem was changed a little, instead of a torque let there be a force that acts on a mass as a function of time given by the same formula,

F = a + bsin(ct)

then F = ma = a + bsin(ct)

Could you integrate that?
 
Calam1tous said:

Homework Statement



A time-dependent torque given by a + bsin(ct) is applied to an object that's initially stationary but is free to rotate. Here a, b, and c are constants. Find an expression for the object's angular momentum as a function of time, assuming the torque is first applied at t = 0.

Homework Equations



∫a +bsin(ct) (from 0 to infinity )
τ = dL / dT

The Attempt at a Solution



Not really sure where to start, since I really don't have much experience with these types of problems. I think that this is an infinite integral problem, at least, since it only defines one point in time. Can anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks!

You set up the integral correctly but just integrate from 0 up until whatever time you're up to now, t.

∫a +bsin(ct) sum of the integral is sum of the parts right?

∫a +∫bsin(ct)

Can you integrate that?
 
I think it's not called indefinite integral but a improper integral. Improper integra is a integral that has lower limit of a specific number and a upper limit of a variable. For example, for the work done by a constant force at displacement s is W=∫F·ds=F·s (with limit from 0 to s)=F·s-F·0=Fs-0=Fs.

Apply the same principle to this equation. Since integral of torque ∫τ dt=∫r×F dt=r×Δp, which is the change in angular momentum ΔJ.

Angular momentum J is initial J(0) plus change ΔJ which is J=J(0)+ΔJ=J(0)+∫τ dt (from 0 to t). Since initially it's at rest, thus J=∫τ dt (from 0 to t).
 
aftershock got it, you don't want to integrate up to infinity unless you wanted the angular momentum at t=infinity. Your answer for angular momentum at some time t is...
<br /> L = \int_0^t a + b \sin (cq)\ dq<br />
 

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