Rotational Motion: Rotational vs. translational kinetic energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the comparison between rotational and translational kinetic energy in an inertia experiment using a rotating apparatus. Two trials were conducted with 100 g masses positioned at different distances from the center, revealing that the final rotational kinetic energy (0.638 J) significantly exceeded the translational kinetic energy (5.73 * 10^(-4) J and 1.27 * 10^(-3) J). The findings confirm that the majority of energy in the system is rotational, with translational energy being minimal due to the configuration of the masses and their moment arms.

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  • Understanding of rotational kinetic energy and its formula.
  • Familiarity with translational kinetic energy and the equation 1/2*m*v^2.
  • Basic knowledge of inertia and moment arms in rotational systems.
  • Experience with experimental physics and data analysis.
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  • Explore the principles of rotational dynamics and the role of moment of inertia.
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Physics students, educators, and researchers interested in the dynamics of rotational motion and energy transfer in mechanical systems.

adenine135
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In an inertia experiment using equipment very similar to the link below, I determined the following:

Trial with two 100 g masses near the ends of the rotating apparatus (larger moment arm):
- Final translational kinetic energy: 5.73 * 10^(-4) J
- Final rotational kinetic energy: 0.638 J

Trial with two 100 g masses closer in on the rotating apparatus (smaller moment arm):
- Final translational kinetic energy: 1.27 * 10^(-3) J
- Final rotational kinetic energy: 0.638 J

The final rotational kinetic energy is much larger than the final translational kinetic energy. Why is that the case?

http://www.usdidactic.com/images/produktbilder/04061000/Datenblatt/04061000 2.pdf
 
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Is translational energy the movement of an object other than rotating? IE left/right, up/down, ETC?
 
Translational kinetic energy is the kinetic energy associated with rectilinear motion, equal to 1/2*m*v^2.
 
adenine135 said:
Translational kinetic energy is the kinetic energy associated with rectilinear motion, equal to 1/2*m*v^2.

Looks to me like the you have very little translational energy because its all rotational energy. The small amount of translational energy is possible from the center of mass wobbling about?

Got my info from here: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=177052
 

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