Rotational Motion, angular velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two cars on a ride rotating at different constant angular velocities, specifically three times the angular velocity of the outer cars. The original poster seeks to determine the time at which the two cars will next pass each other after starting in line at t = 0.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the angular velocities of the two cars and attempt to formulate equations based on their movements. Questions arise regarding the meaning of variables such as "n" and the concept of relative angular velocity.

Discussion Status

Several participants have engaged with the problem, offering hints and encouraging the original poster to share their thought process. There is an ongoing exploration of how to set up the equations needed to approach the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the challenge of visualizing the problem, with references made to analogies such as the movement of clock hands. There is an emphasis on understanding the setup and relationships rather than providing direct solutions.

jimla
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Homework Statement



Two people are on a ride where the inside cars rotate at constant angular velocity three
times the constant angular velocity of the outer cars. If the two cars are in line at t = 0,
and moving at 3ω and ω respectively, at what time will they next pass each other?

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer is π/ω but I can't figure out how to get there! Please help!
 
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jimla said:

Homework Statement



Two people are on a ride where the inside cars rotate at constant angular velocity three
times the constant angular velocity of the outer cars. If the two cars are in line at t = 0,
and moving at 3ω and ω respectively, at what time will they next pass each other?

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer is π/ω but I can't figure out how to get there! Please help!

What variable n represent?

Look at the clock at noon when the hour and minute hand are at top of each other. When will the next when the minute hand pass hour hand?
 
Last edited:
azizlwl said:
What variable n represent?
I think it is "pi".
 
thanks. Old eyes need reading glasses.
 
jimla said:
The answer is π/ω but I can't figure out how to get there! Please help!

Do tell us how you tried it out, its much easier to help then :smile:

As a basic hint, think about the relative angular velocity of the two objects.
 
welcome to pf!

hi jimla! welcome to pf! :wink:
jimla said:
If the two cars are in line at t = 0,
and moving at 3ω and ω respectively …

ok, now translate that into (two) equations

what do you get? :smile:
 

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