Simplify this expression for the period

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on simplifying the expression for T, which is initially given as T = 2πLsinθ / √(Lgsinθtanθ). The user successfully simplifies the expression to [2π * √(Lgsinθtanθ)] / gtanθ and learns that the technique used is known as "taking the square root" or "squaring". The correct final answer is established as 2π * √(Lcosθ / g). This highlights the importance of understanding algebraic manipulation in solving physics problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan)
  • Familiarity with algebraic manipulation techniques
  • Knowledge of square roots and squaring numbers
  • Basic concepts of physics related to forces and motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of square roots and their applications in algebra
  • Learn about trigonometric identities and their uses in simplification
  • Explore the relationship between forces and motion in physics
  • Practice solving similar algebraic expressions in physics contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those tackling problems involving trigonometric expressions and algebraic simplification. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in physics-related mathematics.

crememars
Messages
15
Reaction score
2
Homework Statement
A bob of mass m is suspended from a fixed point with a massless string of length L. You are to investigate the motion in which the string moves in a cone with half-angle, 𝜃. Express your answers in terms of some or all of the variables m, L, and 𝜃, and g.

v = √Lgsin𝜃tan𝜃

How long does it take the bob to make one full revolution (one complete trip around the circle)?
Relevant Equations
T = 2πr / v
r = Lsin𝜃
hi ! I'm having a lot of trouble simplifying my expression for one of my homework questions. I know someone asked about this homework problem already, but the answers didn't really help me figure out how to simplify it.. I really have no idea what steps to take, and I've even consulted all my math notes too.

my expression for T is:

T = 2πLsinθ / √(Lgsinθtanθ)
T = 2πLsinθ * √(Lgsinθtanθ) / Lgsinθtanθ
T = 2π * √(Lgsinθtanθ) / gtanθ

final answer

[ 2π * √(Lgsinθtanθ) ] / gtanθ

the correct answer should be:

2π * √( Lcosθ / g )thank you in advance
 

Attachments

  • Screen Shot 2022-10-12 at 4.43.27 PM.png
    Screen Shot 2022-10-12 at 4.43.27 PM.png
    6.7 KB · Views: 137
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi,

How about the forces that act on the bob ? Can you draw a diagram ?

##\ ##
 
If you square the denominator, you can put it inside the radical. What do you get?
 
kuruman said:
If you square the denominator, you can put it inside the radical. What do you get?
tried that, and it worked, thank u ! what is that rule called though? I don't remember learning it
 
crememars said:
tried that, and it worked, thank u ! what is that rule called though? I don't remember learning it
It's called "taking the square root" or "squaring". You can go back and forth in what is shown below.
$$\sqrt{\frac{A}{B^2}}=\frac{\sqrt{A}}{\sqrt{B^2}}=\frac{\sqrt{A}}{B}$$
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
1K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K