Moment Of Inertia Of A Semi-Circular Disk?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the moment of inertia of a semi-circular disk, focusing on the participant's attempts to solve a homework problem. It includes aspects of mathematical reasoning and technical explanation related to the application of formulas for moment of inertia.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a homework problem involving the moment of inertia of a semi-circular disk and acknowledges an error in their initial solution.
  • Another participant questions the use of the formula 1/4 Mr², seeking clarification on its application.
  • A third participant suggests that the approach is correct but identifies two numerical mistakes, specifically regarding a missing square and an incorrect mass value.
  • The original poster acknowledges the mistake regarding the squared term but questions the assertion about the mass, stating it is 10 kg.
  • A later reply clarifies that the mass was misinterpreted as that of a full disk, prompting a suggestion to verify the equation for the moment of inertia around a specified point.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct mass value or the application of the moment of inertia formula, indicating ongoing uncertainty and multiple viewpoints regarding the problem.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential misinterpretation of the mass of the disk and unresolved numerical errors in the calculations presented.

Roomie
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Homework Statement



http://dl.dropbox.com/u/630750/Screen%20Shot%202012-04-26%20at%2010.03.36.png

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



http://dl.dropbox.com/u/630750/Photo%2026-04-2012%2010%2001%2034.jpg

I know this is wrong but I can't really see why, can anybody help?

Thanks!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Hi Roomie! :smile:

(please type your answers in future)

Why 1/4 Mr2 ? :confused:
 
Your approach is correct, but you've made two mistakes inserting the numbers (hint: you're missing a square and use wrong mass). Check your result again (actually, you should probably make a habit of doing this before posting in the first place)
 
Ah yes I see that I missed a squared, and that makes my answer 0.111. But I don't see how I have used the wrong mass? The mass of the semi circular disk is 10kg?
 
Sorry, I misread the text as if the mass of the full disc was 10 kg.

Reading it correctly I can then only ask as tiny-tim did (that is, check your equation for the moment of inertia around O).
 

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