What is the diameter of the bicycle tire?

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SUMMARY

The diameter of a bicycle tire can be calculated using the relationship between angular speed and linear speed. Given an angular speed of 30 radians/s and a linear speed of 10 m/s, the radius is determined to be 0.33 meters. Consequently, the diameter of the tire is 0.66 meters or 66 centimeters. Proper manipulation of the equations, specifically v = rw and w = v/r, is essential for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular speed and linear speed concepts
  • Familiarity with the equations v = rw and w = v/r
  • Basic algebra skills for solving equations
  • Knowledge of unit conversions between meters and centimeters
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between angular velocity and linear velocity in circular motion
  • Practice solving problems involving rotational dynamics
  • Explore unit conversion techniques for different measurement systems
  • Learn about the implications of tire diameter on bicycle performance
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly in mechanics, as well as anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of bicycle motion and tire specifications.

keithcuda
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Homework Statement


A bicycle tire rotates at 30 radians/s. If the bicyclist travels at 10 m/s, what is the diameter of the tire?

Homework Equations


I found; for angular speed, w=v/r
and for linear speed; v=rw
where v=m/s
and w=radians/s

So if i am thinking correctly, i already know my angular speed of 30 radians/s
and my linear speed is 10m/s
so now i just need to find the radius or diameter of the tire.

If i try solving for r, i get completely different answers.

The Attempt at a Solution


bike tire.jpg
 
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How did you get the 300 in your first solution? Remember what you're solving for, and that you have to treat both sides of an equation the same way.
 
Bystander said:
How did you get the 300 in your first solution? Remember what you're solving for, and that you have to treat both sides of an equation the same way.
good question... It's been a long day here at the power plant.

I always tend to get confused when i try to solve for certain things. i was wanting to solve for "r" by multiplying both sides by 10.

so now i am getting; 30rad/s = 10m/s / r
r=10/30
r=.33

so that is just a radius. The diameter would be .66 meters? or 66cm...?
 
You got that for the second solution, and now for the first solution. That's what I get. And, that should be the diameter.
 
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Bystander said:
You got that for the second solution, and now for the first solution. That's what I get. And, that should be the diameter.
It makes much more sense when I solve for "r" the proper way... :wThanks for the help
Cheers
Keith
 
Have a happy.
 

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