Rotational Velocity and Acceleration

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the physics of a rotating electric toothbrush, specifically focusing on its angular acceleration and tangential acceleration of the bristles. The problem involves calculations related to rotational motion, including angular displacement and frequency of rotation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to determine the angular acceleration based on the toothbrush's rotation and the angle it covers. Questions are raised about the period of rotation and the implications of the toothbrush's dimensions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the necessary calculations for angular acceleration and questioning the assumptions made about the toothbrush's operation. Some guidance has been offered regarding the period of rotation, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is a correction regarding the size of the toothbrush, which was initially misstated. Participants are also considering the implications of the toothbrush's back-and-forth motion on the calculations required.

PhysicsScrub
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1. Electric toothbrushes can be effective in removing dental plaque. One model consists of a head 1.1 cm in diameter that rotates back and forth through a 70.0 angle 7600 times per minute. The rim of the head contains a thin row of bristles. (See the figure )Assuming that the toothbrush has constant angular acceleration in each of the directions it turns, find the angular acceleration (in rad/sec2 ) of the rotating head and the tangential acceleration (in m/s2 ) of the bristles.


What is the rotational acceleration in rad/sec2

What is tangental accelration in m/s2
 
Last edited:
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Seriously? A toothbrush 1.1 inches in diameter? Is it for horses?
 
gneill said:
Seriously? A toothbrush 1.1 inches in diameter? Is it for horses?

Oops. that should say 1.1 cm
 
PhysicsScrub said:
Oops. that should say 1.1 cm

Phew! You had me worried for a moment there :smile:

So assuming that the brush goes from zero to angle seventy degrees in a half period, what is the required angular acceleration?
 
gneill said:
Phew! You had me worried for a moment there :smile:

So assuming that the brush goes from zero to angle seventy degrees in a half period, what is the required angular acceleration?

realllly unsure bud
 
Well, if it goes back and forth 7600 times every minute, what's the period for one cycle?
 

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