Rotational kinetic energy of a flywheel

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the rotational kinetic energy of a flywheel with a radius of 1.12 m and a mass of 736 kg, which is spun to a speed of 7270 revolutions per minute (rev/min). The correct formula for kinetic energy (KE) is KE = 0.5 * Inertia * ω², where Inertia is calculated as I = m * r². The user initially calculated the kinetic energy as approximately 267,554,029.7 J but received feedback indicating the answer was incorrect, prompting a discussion on whether the flywheel should be modeled as a disk (I = 0.5 * m * r²) instead of a hoop (I = m * r²).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rotational dynamics and kinetic energy equations
  • Familiarity with unit conversions, specifically from revolutions per minute to radians per second
  • Knowledge of moment of inertia for different shapes (disk vs. hoop)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations and solving for unknowns
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn about the moment of inertia for various geometric shapes, focusing on disks and hoops
  • Study unit conversion techniques, particularly for angular velocity
  • Explore the implications of energy storage in flywheels for automotive applications
  • Investigate the relationship between horsepower and energy consumption in mechanical systems
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering courses, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of rotational motion and energy storage systems.

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Homework Statement


A car is designed to get its energy from a rotating flywheel with a radius of 1.12 m and
a mass of 736 kg. Before a trip, the flywheel is attached to an electric motor, which
brings the flywheel’s rotational speed up to 7270 rev/min.
Find the kinetic energy stored in the fly-wheel.
Answer in units of J.

Homework Equations


KE = 0.5*Inertia*w^2
Inertia = m*r^2


The Attempt at a Solution



convert 7270 rev/min to rad/s = 761.314 rad/s

KE equation: 0.5*(761.314)^2*(736 kg)*(1.12m)^2 = 267554029.7

answer is apparently wrong... help please?




PART 2, I don't think I can do this without a correct answer from part 1

If the flywheel is to supply energy to the car as would a 11.8 hp motor, how long could the
car run before the flywheel would have to be brought back up to speed?
Answer in units of h.
 
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Is it possible the flywheel is modeled as a disk rather than a hoop, in which case

I = .5MR^2, not I = MR^2 ?
 
Yes, try!

ehild
 

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