# Velocity of current-carrying cylinder

Tags:
1. Jun 23, 2015

### steve B. 98

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A cylindrical rod of length w carries a current I as shown(perpendicular to B) and is bathed in a field B perpendicular to the plane in which is a " shaped rail. The rod rolls without slipping on the rails, its length perpendicular to the two parallel rails and equal to the space between them. It starts at rest and rolls off after going a distance L. Show that its exit velocity is $v = \sqrt{ \frac{4BLIw}{3M}}$

2. Relevant equations
$F=B \times I w=BIw$
$\tau=r \times F$
$\tau=I\alpha$

3. The attempt at a solution

I start by taking the torque
$\tau=r \times BIw$
Using the moment of inertia for a cylinder I get
$\tau=Mr^2\alpha /2$
$\alpha=\frac{2BIw}{Mr}$
since the problem was rolling without slipping we get.
$a=\frac{2BIw}{M}$
Using $v^2=0^2+2as$
$v=\sqrt{\frac{4BIwL}{M}}$
But this is off by a factor of $\frac{1}{\sqrt{3}}$.
What did I do wrong, and some hints toward the solution would be nice.

2. Jun 23, 2015

### AYPHY

easy question pal i have solved it and i am placing the pictures.
First find net force which is force on wire by current and field and second is frictional force which will rotate it and hence net force is IwB-f which is Ma .
Then find torque which is fr=Iα when you will sove net acc. to be 2IwB/(3M) place it in v^2=2aL you will get the answer.

3. Jun 23, 2015

### AYPHY

your acc was incorrect hence your answer came out wrong.

#### Attached Files:

• ###### 20150623_224811.jpg
File size:
57.7 KB
Views:
50
4. Jun 23, 2015

### AYPHY

i think this might clear your doubt more then ask.

Know someone interested in this topic? Share this thread via Reddit, Google+, Twitter, or Facebook

Have something to add?
Draft saved Draft deleted