Is Angular Momentum Conserved During the Changing of the String Length?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves an object attached to a string moving in a circular path on a frictionless table. The string's length can be adjusted during the motion, and the question focuses on the implications of shortening the string on the period of motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the period based on the initial and adjusted string lengths and question whether the speed of the object changes when the string is shortened.

Discussion Status

Some participants have attempted calculations for the period but express confusion regarding the correctness of their results. There is a suggestion to consider conservation principles related to the motion as the string length changes.

Contextual Notes

Participants are exploring the effects of changing the string length on the motion of the object, particularly regarding conservation laws that may apply in this scenario.

AlexanderIV

Homework Statement


An object with mass m is attached to a string with initial length R, and moves on a frictionless table in a circular orbit with center C as shown in the figure. The string is also attached to the center, but its length is adjustable during the motion. The object initially moves with velocity v and angular velocity ω.
Given: m = 500 g, v = π m/s, R = 50 cm
If the length of the string is shortened from R to r = R/2 while the mass is moving, what will be the new period in SI units?

Homework Equations


T = (2πR) / v

The Attempt at a Solution


T = (2πR) / v = (2π0.5) / π = 1
=> T = (2πR/2) / v = 0.5 s

But apparently 0.5 is not the correct answer and I do not understand why.
 
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AlexanderIV said:
T = (2πR) / v = (2π0.5) / π = 1
=> T = (2πR/2) / v = 0.5 s

But apparently 0.5 is not the correct answer and I do not understand why.
Does the speed change when the string is shortened?
 
TSny said:
Does the speed change when the string is shortened?

No, it doesn't.
 
AlexanderIV said:
No, it doesn't.
Can you think of any physical quantity that remains conserved during the changing of the length of the string? (Maybe it's something you have recently covered in your course.)
 

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