Rotational Motion and Angular Displacement

AI Thread Summary
A stroboscope can make a rotating object appear stationary by flashing at a specific rate. For a three-bladed propeller rotating at 12.6 revolutions per second, the shortest time between flashes to achieve this effect is calculated using the formula ω=(∆θ)/(∆t). The user initially calculated the angular displacement incorrectly by mixing units, leading to an incorrect time of 0.166 seconds. The discussion emphasizes the importance of unit consistency in physics problems. Overall, the conversation highlights common mistakes in understanding angular motion and encourages a positive outlook on learning from errors.
wchvball13
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Homework Statement



A stroboscope is a light that flashes on and off at a constant rate. It can be used to illuminate a rotating object, and if the flashing rate is adjusted properly, the object can be made to appear stationary.

(a) What is the shortest time between flashes of light that will make a three-bladed propeller appear stationary when it is rotating with an angular speed of 12.6 rev/s?



(b) What is the next shortest time?




Homework Equations



ω=(∆θ)/(∆t)


The Attempt at a Solution



I took ∆θ = ⅓ rev (2pi radians/1 rev) = 2.09 radians
then I used ω=(∆θ)/(∆t)...
12.6 = (2.09/t) which gives me t=.166

What I did makes sense to me, but the answer is wrong so obviously I am too...Don't know what else to do...
 
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Looks like you have an issue with unit consistency. You have put the angular displacement in radians, but the angular velocity is in rev/s. Change velocity to rad/s.
 
i'm retarded...

THANKS!
 
wchvball13 said:
i'm retarded...

No, no...don't be so hard on yourself. I like to refer to these moments as "Brain Farts". Not quite as permanent!
 
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