Unrolling of Paper (Torque/Rotational Motion)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving torque and rotational motion, specifically related to the unrolling of a roll of paper under the influence of an applied force and friction. The original poster presents a scenario with given parameters such as the radius, moment of inertia, applied force, and friction torque, and seeks to calculate the length of paper unrolled during two distinct phases of motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate torque and angular acceleration based on the provided force and moment of inertia. They express uncertainty about their calculations and seek guidance on how to approach the second part of the problem regarding the motion after the force is removed.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide feedback on the original poster's calculations, indicating that the approach for Part A appears reasonable. Guidance is offered on how to proceed with Part B by suggesting the calculation of velocity at the moment the force ceases and using that to determine the distance until the roll stops. The discussion reflects a supportive environment with participants engaging in clarification and encouragement.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a lack of understanding of torque and rotational motion, which may influence their confidence in solving the problem. There is also a reference to a previous issue regarding marking the thread as solved, indicating a potential procedural concern within the forum.

kritzy
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1. The radius of the roll of paper is 7.9cm and its moment of inertia is I= 3.1×10−3 kg m^2 . A force of 2.3 N is exerted on the end of the roll for 1.3 s, but the paper does not tear so it begins to unroll. A constant friction torque of 0.13 mN is exerted on the roll which gradually brings it to a stop. (Part A)Assuming that the paper's thickness is negligible, calculate the length of paper that unrolls during the time that the force is applied (1.3s). (Part B)Assuming that the paper's thickness is negligible, calculate the length of paper that unrolls from the time the force ends to the time when the roll has stopped moving.

2.Relevant Equations
\tau=RF
\tau=I\alpha
a=R\alpha
x=\frac{1}{2}at^{2}

3. The Attempt at a Solution [/b]

I don't understand torque and rotational motion very much but here's my attempt.
(Part A) Since they give a force, I found the torque.
\tau=RF
(.079)(2.3)=.1817
Then I find the sum of torques.
.1817-.13=.0517
\Sigma\tau=I\alpha
\alpha=\frac{\Sigma\tau}{I}
\alpha=.0517/.0031=16.6
a=R\alpha=(16.6)(.079)=1.3
x=.5at^2=(.5)(1.3)(1.3)^2=1.0985
I don't think that's right. Unfortunately, I don't understand Part B either. Can somebody please lead me in the right direction?
 
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Welcome to PF!

kritzy said:
(Part A) Since they give a force, I found the torque.
\tau=RF
(.079)(2.3)=.1817
Then I find the sum of torques.
.1817-.13=.0517
\Sigma\tau=I\alpha
\alpha=\frac{\Sigma\tau}{I}
\alpha=.0517/.0031=16.6
a=R\alpha=(16.6)(.079)=1.3
x=.5at^2=(.5)(1.3)(1.3)^2=1.0985
I don't think that's right. Unfortunately, I don't understand Part B either. Can somebody please lead me in the right direction?

Hi kritzy ! Welcome to PF! :smile:

(have a tau: τ and an alpha: α and a sigma: ∑ and try using the X2 tag just above the Reply box :wink:)

Your Part A looks ok to me … what's worrying you about it?

For Part B, first calculate the velocity (or angular velocity) when the 2.3N stops, then use the new (negative) acceleration in the appropriate constant acceleration equation to find the distance until the velocity is zero :wink:
 


tiny-tim said:
Hi kritzy ! Welcome to PF! :smile:

(have a tau: τ and an alpha: α and a sigma: ∑ and try using the X2 tag just above the Reply box :wink:)

Your Part A looks ok to me … what's worrying you about it?

For Part B, first calculate the velocity (or angular velocity) when the 2.3N stops, then use the new (negative) acceleration in the appropriate constant acceleration equation to find the distance until the velocity is zero :wink:


I understand now! Thank you for your help. I thought my answer for part A was wrong so I was too scared to submit it. But it worked out okay. By the way, how do I mark the thread as solved? Thanks again.
 
kritzy said:
I understand now! Thank you for your help. I thought my answer for part A was wrong so I was too scared to submit it. But it worked out okay. By the way, how do I mark the thread as solved? Thanks again.

Hi kritzy! :wink:

The "solved" facility disappeared during the Great Server Update of '08. :biggrin:

I'm glad it all worked out.

See you around. :smile:
 

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