Simple harmonic oscillation: uniform rod

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a uniform rod of mass m and length L that is freely pivoted at one end, with the goal of determining the period of its oscillations. The context is within the subject area of simple harmonic motion and rotational dynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the period using the moment of inertia and angular frequency, expressing uncertainty about their conclusion. Some participants question the distance from the pivot to the center of mass, suggesting it may affect the calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with one providing a revised calculation after realizing an error regarding the distance to the center of mass. There is a shift in understanding as the discussion progresses, but no explicit consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on correctly identifying the distance from the pivot to the center of mass, which is crucial for determining the moment of inertia. The original poster expresses concern about potentially overlooking aspects of the problem.

vetgirl1990
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Homework Statement


A uniform rod of mass m and length L is freely pivoted at one end. What is the period of its oscillations? Icm for a uniform rod rotating about its centre of mass is 1/12mL2

(a) √3g/2L
(b) 2π √3L/2g
(c) 2π √2L/3g
(d) 2π √L/g
(e) none of the above

Homework Equations


ω2 = mgL/I

Icm = 1/12mL2
I = Icm +1/12mL2

Period: T = 2π/ω

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm fairly certain that the answer is "none of the above", but I'd just like to make sure I'm not neglecting anything in what seems to be a simple plug-and-chug question.

I = Icm +1/12mL2 = 1/12mL2 + mL2 = 13/12 mL2

ω = √mgL/I= √(mgL)/(13/12)mL2 = √12g/13L

T = 2π/ω = 2π √13L/12g
 
Last edited:
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What is the distance between the Centre of mass of rod and the end? Answer this and you'll realize what you did wrong.
 
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AbhinavJ said:
What is the distance between the Centre of mass of rod and the end? Answer this and you'll realize what you did wrong.
I just realized what I did wrong. The distance is L/2, so the moment of inertia equation turns into: I = 1/3mL2

So then ω2 = mg(L/2) / (1/3)mL2

Therefore T = 2π √2L/3g

Thanks!
 
vetgirl1990 said:
Thanks!
Welcome :)
 

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