Speed of the second hand of a smoothly running analog watch?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the angular speed of the second hand of an analog watch, specifically focusing on the conversion between degrees and radians in the context of angular motion.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore different methods to calculate angular speed, including direct calculations and conversions between degrees and radians. There are attempts to clarify the correct format for answers in a specific online platform.

Discussion Status

Several participants have provided different calculations and interpretations of the problem, with some expressing confusion over the correct answer format. There is a mix of approaches being discussed, and some guidance has been offered regarding the conversion process and the use of π in answers.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential constraints related to the online submission format, specifically regarding the acceptance of answers involving π. There is also mention of the need to convert between degrees and radians, which may affect the calculations.

akoma714
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(a) What is the angular speed of the second hand of a smoothly running analog watch?
____ (rad/s)

i got 0.03 pi
webassign says "Check the syntax of your response"
i also tried 0.03, but it's wrong also..

how do i put my answer?
 
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In radians. pi=180 radians, so 0.03pi= 0.03*180=5.4 radians.
 
But, w=theta/t=360/60=6 radians/second.
 
hmm, those were all wrong.. i don't know
 
chaoseverlasting said:
But, w=theta/t=360/60=6 radians/second.

I believe that gives you 6 degrees per second, which still needs to be converted into radians. There are [tex]2 \pi[/tex] radians in a whole circle.

From the fact that when you entered "pi" webassign told you to check your syntax, I assume that this problem will not accept pi as part of an answer--if you get an answer with pi, multiply out!
 
360deg/1min = 360deg/60sec = 6deg/sec x 1rad/180deg = 0.03 rad/sec?
 
OH! I get it now..

360deg/60sec x 2pi rad/360deg = 0.105

Thanks for the help =]
 
akoma714 said:
360deg/1min = 360deg/60sec = 6deg/sec x 1pi rad/180deg = 0.03 pi rad/sec?
=(0.0333)*(3.14159...)=_________

edit: you beat me :). Happy physics!
BTW, notice that you multiplied and divided by 360o. You could have just started working in radians and saved yourself the trouble (but it would have required thinking in new units to begin with).
 
Last edited:

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