Rotational Dynamics (Rotating pulley)

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The discussion revolves around calculating the acceleration of a block connected to a rotating pulley with a specified radius and moment of inertia. The user is uncertain about the rotation of the pulley and how to incorporate its mass into the calculations. They propose that the acceleration of the pulley is half that of the block and seek clarification on the relationship between tension and the forces acting on the system. Additionally, they inquire about the assumption of the pulley’s shape, suggesting it may be treated as a disk for calculations. The conversation emphasizes the need to understand the dynamics of rotational motion and the implications of the moment of inertia in solving the problem.
ritwik06
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Homework Statement


The descending pulley shown in the figure has a radius 20 cm and moment of inertia 0.2 kg m^{2}. The fixed pulley is light and the horizontal plane frictionless.
Find the acceleration of the block if its mass is One kg.

http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/1808/diagrammj2.jpg

The Attempt at a Solution



I am not sure whether the lower pulley will rotate or not but as the moment of inertia and the radius is given, I think it will. Please explain this:

Assuming the lower pulley rotates.
Tension in the left segment =T
And in the right segment =T' (since there must be friction present for the lower pulley to rotate)

T=a (a is acceleration of block)

Mg-(T+T')=Ma*0.5 (where M is the mass of the pulley - which is unknown, how will I take this out?)

The acceleration of the pulley will be half the acceleration of the block, isn't it?

Torque=I*angular acceleration
0.2(T'-T)=0.2(a/2R) (R=0.2 m given)

The answer given in my book is 10 m/s2 but I am not sure how to get the mass of the pulley? Where exactly am I going wrong?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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you should be able to get the mass from the given moment of inertia --- sometimes also known as the "angular mass" or "mass moment of inertia."

Edited to add: Hint: what shape is the pulley?
 
Last edited:
physics girl phd said:
you should be able to get the mass from the given moment of inertia --- sometimes also known as the "angular mass" or "mass moment of inertia."

Edited to add: Hint: what shape is the pulley?

It hasnt been provided in th question- the shape of the pulley- Can it be assume to be a disk!

Also I need assistance on this equation of mine!
Do u agree that the 2* acceleration of pulley = acceleration of block(a)

Then while using a=r*\alpha
what shall I put a?? acceleration of pulley or of block?
 
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