Rotational moment of inertia in Kg*m^2

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on estimating the total rotational moment of inertia of motors and generators in the Eastern United States, with an initial calculation of 2.1673e8 MWh leading to a conversion of energy to Joules. The participant expresses uncertainty about how to convert energy into rotational moment of inertia, emphasizing that moment of inertia is a geometrical property requiring assumptions about generator sizes. Additionally, there is a reminder about the importance of using correct unit symbols and capitalization, highlighting common mistakes in the initial post. The conversation emphasizes the need for relevant equations to be listed by the participant themselves. Overall, the thread illustrates the complexities involved in estimating rotational moment of inertia from energy data.
gesk0015
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Homework Statement


Estimate the total rotational moment of inertia in Kg*m^2, of all the motors and generators in the Eastern United States.


Homework Equations



No other information was provided.

The Attempt at a Solution



First off I went to the following website to estimate the generation capacity of the Eastern U.S.

http://www.eia.doe.gov/cneaf/electricity/epm/table1_6_a.html

I came up with a total of 2.1673e8 MWh for the Eastern U.S.
=2.1673e11 KWh

I know that 1 KW=3600 Joules.

so from this I get a total of 7.80228e14 Joules

From here I am at a loss at how to convert this to rotational moment of Inertia( Kg*m^2)
 
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Moment of inertia is a geometrical property, and is not related to performance. You will have to do some assumptions about the size of the generators and extrapolate polar moments of inertia from that assumption. Good luck.
 
gesk0015: You must list relevant equations yourself. We are not allowed to list the relevant equations for you.

By the way, you misspelled several units. E.g., K means kelvin; k means kilo. Always use correct capitalization of units. See NIST[/color] for the correct spelling of any unit symbol. Here is the correct spelling of all the units you misspelled: kg, kW, kW*h, MW*h, joule. You also have an incorrect conversion listed.
 
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