Rotational KE: Calculate Energy of 2 Astronauts | 739.3 J

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SUMMARY

The rotational kinetic energy (KE) of two astronauts, each with a mass of 54 kg and connected by a 10 m rope, is calculated to be 739.3 J. They orbit around their center of mass at a speed of 3.7 m/s. The formula used for the calculation is KE = 1/2 (I + I) ω², confirming that option A is the correct answer. This calculation demonstrates the application of rotational dynamics in a microgravity environment.

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URGENT: rotatonal KE

Two astronauts each having a mass of 54 kg are connected by a 10 m rope of negligible mass. They are isolated in space, orbiting about their centre of mass at speeds of 3.7 m/s. Calculate the rotational energy of the two astronauts.

A. 739.3 J
B. 1478.5 J
C. 29.6 J
D. 317.9 J
E. 369.6 J

Which one is it?

I did:

KE= 1/2 (I + I) omega ^2

and it turned out to be A. Is it correct?
 
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