Motion of a bead on a rotating linear rod

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the motion of a bead on a rotating linear rod, specifically focusing on deriving the equation of motion in a rotating frame. The problem involves concepts from nonlinear mechanics and Lagrangian mechanics, with an emphasis on the effects of centrifugal and Coriolis forces.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the elimination of the y-axis motion due to the bead's constraint along the rod and the implications of the Coriolis effect on the bead's motion. There are inquiries about the appropriate methods to model the problem, including the use of polar versus Cartesian coordinates.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants sharing their current understanding and approaches. Some have suggested starting with the general equations of motion in two dimensions, while others express uncertainty about how to incorporate rotational motion into their solutions. There is no explicit consensus on the method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem is framed within the context of a rotating system and that the original poster is seeking guidance on how to apply their knowledge of mechanics to this specific scenario.

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Homework Statement


The center of a long frictionless rod, pivoted at the origin, is forced to rotate at a constant angular velocity Ω in the horizontal xy-plane. Write down the equation of motion for a bead threaded on the rod, using the coordinates x and y where x is measured along the rod and y perpendicular to it. Solve for x(t). What is the role of the centrifugal and coriolis force?

Homework Equations


Newton's Second Law in a rotating frame?


The Attempt at a Solution


Since the bead's fixed to move along the wire, I've eliminated the equation for the motion along the y-axis. The bead's position along the x-axis varies with time, and based on the coriolis effect, the bead should slide out away from the origin.

I'm not sure how to deal with the math from here though. Any tips on how to get started would be greatly appreciated.
 
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There are several different ways to do it. What have you been taught so far? Have a go using the method you are familiar with.
 
Right now we're working on nonlinear mechanics, but we've covered Lagrangian mechanics. I'm not sure how I should start this problem using either method. I know that the rotation will cause the bead to slide out, but I'm not sure how to model it...
 
To start with, you know it is 2d motion of an object (the bead), so you can first write down the general equation of motion for an object in 2d.

Edit: Also, the question is talking about polar coordinates, so that's the coordinate system you should use.
 
The question itself is asking for the equation of motion in cartesian coordinates. My question is, how can I incorporate the rotation into my answer?
 
How do you usually incorporate rotational motion? I can't really tell you how I would do it, because I think that would be giving too much help.
 
Ohh, I see. Thanks for the help!
 
If you don't help me by giving it a go, I can't help you.
 

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