Path Coordinates and constant circular acceleration.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the velocity and acceleration vectors of a spinning top unwinding a string of length 0.64m at a radius of 0.02m, with a constant angular acceleration of 12 rad/s². The top completes approximately 16π revolutions, equating to about 315.8 radians. Key equations include the tangential acceleration formula a = (tangential acceleration)·&hat;t + (normal acceleration)·&hat;n and the velocity vector v = (magnitude of velocity vector)·&hat;t. The participants emphasize the need to apply kinematic equations to derive the final velocity and acceleration values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular motion and acceleration
  • Familiarity with path coordinates in physics
  • Knowledge of kinematic equations
  • Basic concepts of tangential and normal acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of tangential and normal acceleration in circular motion
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations in rotational dynamics
  • Explore the relationship between angular displacement, angular velocity, and angular acceleration
  • Investigate the implications of constant angular acceleration on velocity vectors
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Students studying rotational dynamics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of spinning objects and their motion in path coordinates.

Buckshot23
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Homework Statement



A top is made to spin by unwinding the string wrapped around it. The string has a length of 0.64m and is wound at a radius of 0.02m (neglect string thickness). The string is pulled such that top spins with a constant angular acceleration of 12 rad/s^2. Determine the velocity and acceleration vectors in path coordinates when the string has completely unwound. Assume that the top starts from rest.


Homework Equations



a=(tangential acceleration)*[tex]\hat{t}[/tex]+(normal acceleration)*[tex]\hat{n}[/tex]

v=(magnitude of velocity vector)*[tex]\hat{t}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



The string pulls so that 16[tex]\pi[/tex] revolutions occur which is approximately 315.8 radians.

Tangential acceleration = r*[tex]\alpha[/tex] or (.02m)(12 rad/s^2) (or is this only for constant circular speed situations?)

I am pretty well lost on this one. Where do I begin?
 
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Buckshot23 said:

Homework Statement



A top is made to spin by unwinding the string wrapped around it. The string has a length of 0.64m and is wound at a radius of 0.02m (neglect string thickness). The string is pulled such that top spins with a constant angular acceleration of 12 rad/s^2. Determine the velocity and acceleration vectors in path coordinates when the string has completely unwound. Assume that the top starts from rest.


Homework Equations



a=(tangential acceleration)*[tex]\hat{t}[/tex]+(normal acceleration)*[tex]\hat{n}[/tex]

v=(magnitude of velocity vector)*[tex]\hat{t}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



The string pulls so that 16[tex]\pi[/tex] revolutions occur which is approximately 315.8 radians.

Tangential acceleration = r*[tex]\alpha[/tex] or (.02m)(12 rad/s^2) (or is this only for constant circular speed situations?)

I am pretty well lost on this one. Where do I begin?

First are you sure that it's 16*π is the number of revolutions?

As to figuring the velocity maybe you can use the usual kinematic equations?

Vf2 = Vo2 + 2*a*x

Only V is in radians/s and x is in radians?
 

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