Shape of Minimum Moment of Inertia for Fixed Volume: How to Prove?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on finding the shape of a solid of revolution that minimizes the moment of inertia while maintaining a fixed volume. The moment of inertia is expressed through the integral I = ∫(1/2)r²dm, and the volume is defined as V = ∫πr²dz. The user attempts to apply the Euler-Lagrange equations but finds no meaningful results, suggesting that the answer should be a sphere, while the expected result is a cylinder. The conversation highlights the challenge of proving the cylinder as the optimal shape for minimum moment of inertia. Ultimately, the focus is on the mathematical proof required to establish the cylinder as the solution.
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Homework Statement


Find the shape of the solid of revolution with the minimum moment of inertia about it's axis, given the volume is fixed.

Homework Equations


I=\int\frac{1}{2}r^2dm=\int\frac{1}{2}r^2\rho~dV=\int\frac{\rho\pi}{2}r^4dz
V=\int \pir^2dz

I+\lambda V must be stationary.

The Attempt at a Solution


However, when I apply the E-L equs nothing meaningful comes out.
 
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it must be a sphere.
 
How do you prove this. The answer is cylinder.
 
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