Calculating Rotational Speed Change When Adding Mass to a Rotating Object"

In summary, the addition of a non-rotating 1 lb. mass to a rotating 40 lb. mass on its central axis would depend on the shapes of the masses. The change in rotational speed would also depend on the proportionality between the smaller and larger mass. There is not enough information to determine the exact effect on the rotating mass without considering the shapes. Further exploration of angular momentum and moment of inertia may provide a clearer answer.
  • #1
rdmachinist
2
0
If a rotating 40 lb. mass has a non rotating 1 lb. mass instantly added to it's central axis, how much will the rotating mass slow down? Secondly, all else equal, does the rotational speed change the proportionality with which the smaller mass slows the larger (inverse square or some such law)?
 
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  • #2
rdmachinist said:
If a rotating 40 lb. mass has a non rotating 1 lb. mass instantly added to it's central axis, how much will the rotating mass slow down? Secondly, all else equal, does the rotational speed change the proportionality with which the smaller mass slows the larger (inverse square or some such law)?
There's not enough information to answer the question: it depends on the shapes of the masses. Assuming a vertical axis:
  • If the large mass was tall and thin, and the small mass was short and fat, the large mass would slow down a lot.
  • If the large mass was short and fat, and the small mass was tall and thin, the large mass wouldn't slow very much.
Do you know about angular momentum? Or moment of inertia?
 
  • #3
I'll look into these terms more thoroughly and repost at a later date if nessesary. Thanks for the reply.
 

1. What is rotating mass and why is it important in science?

Rotating mass refers to any object or system that is spinning or rotating around a fixed axis. It is important in science because it can affect the stability, movement, and energy of a system. For example, the rotation of the Earth affects its orbit around the sun and the rotation of atoms plays a crucial role in chemical reactions.

2. How is rotating mass measured?

Rotating mass is typically measured in terms of its moment of inertia, which is a property that describes an object's resistance to change in its rotational motion. It is calculated based on the mass of the object and its distribution around the axis of rotation.

3. What factors can affect the moment of inertia of a rotating mass?

The moment of inertia of a rotating mass can be affected by its shape, size, and distribution of mass. Objects with a larger mass, greater distance from the axis of rotation, or more spread out mass will have a higher moment of inertia.

4. How does rotating mass impact the movement of objects?

The moment of inertia of a rotating mass affects the speed and stability of its movement. Objects with a higher moment of inertia will require more energy to accelerate or change direction, and may also be more resistant to changes in their rotational speed.

5. What are some real-life applications of rotating mass in science and technology?

Rotating mass is used in many different fields, such as engineering, physics, and astronomy. Some common applications include gyroscopes for navigation, flywheels for energy storage, and centrifuges for separating mixtures. In addition, the study of rotating mass is important in understanding the dynamics of celestial bodies, such as planets and stars.

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