What is the direction of friction on a plate on two rotating wheels?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the direction of friction acting on a plate positioned on two wheels rotating in opposite directions. When the plate is displaced to the right, the friction force on the right wheel acts inward to counteract this movement, attempting to restore the plate's position. The participant clarifies their understanding of the motion, realizing that the topmost point of the right wheel moves in relation to the plate during displacement. The key takeaway is that the friction direction is crucial for analyzing the oscillation of the plate when it is slightly displaced. Understanding these dynamics is essential for solving the problem of the plate's time period of oscillation.
lavankohsa
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Homework Statement


A uniform plate of mass M stays horizontally and symmetrically on two wheels rotating in opposite
directions. The separation between the wheels is L. The friction coefficient between each wheel and the plate is N. Find the time period of oscillation of the plate if it is slightly displayed along its length and
released.

25thrlw.jpg

ixwpci.png

http://[PLAIN]http://i61.tinypic.com/25thrlw.png
2. Homework Equations


My teacher solved this problem in class and i understood everything except the direction of friction. The plate moved to right by distance x.

http://[PLAIN]http://i61.tinypic.com/ixwpci.png

The Attempt at a Solution



According to me right wheel should have direction of friction inside. Because plate wants to move out. So it will try to move back the plate left side.
 
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lavankohsa said:
According to me right wheel should have direction of friction inside. Because plate wants to move out. So it will try to move back the plate left side.

How would the topmost point of the right wheel move with respect to the plate above it ? Towards right or left ?
 
i figured it out the my own. i thought that he is displacing the plate right while maintaining the contact with rotating cylinder. But He is lifting the plate, displacing it and then putting it back.
 
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