Sphere vs Cube: Rotational Inertia

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the comparison of rotational inertia between a sphere and a cube, both having the same mass and specific dimensions. Participants explore the implications of these shapes' geometries on their rotational properties, particularly focusing on an axis through their center of mass.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant poses a question regarding which shape, a sphere or a cube, has more rotational inertia when both have the same mass and the cube's side length equals the sphere's diameter.
  • Another participant suggests that the information can be found through research, implying that the answer may not be straightforward or commonly known.
  • A different participant emphasizes the need for an explanation or theoretical background related to the question posed.
  • Another reply reiterates the request for an explanation and provides a link to a resource on calculating moment of inertia, indicating a desire for a deeper understanding of the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not reach a consensus, as participants express differing views on the need for theoretical explanation and the approach to finding answers.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided specific calculations or definitive comparisons of the rotational inertia values, leaving the discussion open-ended regarding the implications of the shapes' geometries.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals studying physics, particularly those focused on rotational dynamics and the properties of geometric shapes.

PhysicsKid0123
Messages
95
Reaction score
1
Which would have more rotational inertia? A sphere or cube?
Suppose they have the same mass, the side of the cube has the same length as the diameter of the sphere, the cube's rotation axis is perpendicular to two of its faces. Which one would have more rotational inertia about an axis through the center of mass?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Ya know, you can look this stuff up.
 
What about the explanation/theory?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 49 ·
2
Replies
49
Views
6K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K