Rotation of line about rotating axis

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the rotation of a line (MN) in a three-dimensional space defined by two axes of rotation (A and B) and the conditions under which this line may pass through every point in space. The scope includes theoretical exploration of rotational dynamics and geometric implications in a lab frame.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Post 1 introduces the configuration of axes A and B, the rotation of line MN about axis A, and questions whether MN will eventually pass through every point in 3D space under specific conditions of angular velocities (w1 and w2).
  • Post 2 suggests that if the relationship ##i * \omega_1 = j * \omega_2## holds for integers i and j, then MN will sweep through fixed positions in the xy plane, implying a dependence on common divisors.
  • Post 3 reiterates the conditions regarding the integral multiples of w1 and w2 and maintains the original question about the line MN's ability to pass through every point in 3D space.
  • Post 4 introduces the concept of Lissajous figures as an analogy, suggesting a connection to spherical angular coordinates and the geometric nature of the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the implications of the angular velocity relationships and the geometric behavior of the line MN. The discussion remains unresolved regarding whether MN will pass through every point in 3D space.

Contextual Notes

Participants have introduced specific conditions regarding the angular velocities and their relationships, but the implications of these conditions on the motion of line MN remain unclear. The discussion does not resolve the mathematical steps or assumptions involved.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in rotational dynamics, geometric transformations, and mathematical modeling of motion in three-dimensional space may find this discussion relevant.

hackhard
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axis A is always normal to plane of the circle and passes thru centre of circle
axis B is always parallel to plane of circle and is always parallel to y- axis of lab frame.
axis B passes thru centre of the circle
the infinitely long line MN always lies on the plane of the circle and passes thru centre of circle
the line MN rotates (in plane of circle) about axis A. with angular velo "w1"
the plane of circle itself rotates about axis B with angular velo "w2"
if w1 is not equal to w2 and
w1 is not equal to w2 / 2 and
w1 /2 is not equal to w2
then -
will the line MN (at some point of time) pass thru every point (coordinates defined wrt lab frame) in 3d space?
(rotations continue forever)

DSC05749.JPG
 
Last edited:
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If ##i * \omega_1 = j * \omega_2## (with i, j integers) then it's easy to see that MN sweeps through the xy plane at fixed positions. So it's a matter of common dividers. You only excluded i = 2, j = 1.
 
BvU said:
If ##i * \omega_1 = j * \omega_2## (with i, j integers) then it's easy to see that MN sweeps through the xy plane at fixed positions. So it's a matter of common dividers. You only excluded i = 2, j = 1.
i am adding 3 points to my initial question-
w1 is not an integral multiple of w2
w2 is not an integral multiple of w1
axis B is fixed wrt lab frame

my question remains unchanged -
hackhard said:
will the line MN (at some point of time) pass thru every point (coordinates defined wrt lab frame) in 3d space?
 
Moving the goalposts while playing, eh ? Do you know about Lissajous figures ? Your casus is analogous in every possible respect if you think of spherical angular coordinates ##\theta## and ##\phi## instead of x and y.
 

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