Why Does Extracting Density Affect My Moment of Inertia Calculation?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around deriving the moment of inertia for a cylindrical object using the formula I = ∫ r² dm. The user questions the validity of pulling the density (p) out of the integral, noting that when p is treated as a constant, the results differ significantly. When p is left inside the integral, the calculation leads to I = Mr², while pulling it out yields the correct result of I = M/2r². The confusion stems from the integration process and the treatment of density as constant versus variable. Ultimately, the user seeks clarity on the correct application of density in the moment of inertia calculation.
kuahji
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I'm attempting to derive the moment of inertia for a cylindrical object.

I know that I=\int r^2 dm

which equals =\int r^2 p dV

My question begins here, the derivations I seen pull p out of the integral, which makes sense to do, because in this case it's a constant. p=M/(\pir^2L). So if I don't pull p out before integrating I get I=Mr^2, if I do pull it out, I get I=M/2r^2. I know the answer should be I=M/2r^2 because I have a solid cylindrical object. So why am I getting a different result when I leave p in, & a different result when I pull p out or am I just making a silly math error?

Below is my work when I leave p inside the integral

I=\int r^2*p*(2\pi*r)dr
=2M\int r dr (replacing p with M/(\pir^2L) before integrating)
=Mr^2
 
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I believe that density is constant for each material.

p/s: you replace m = DV, then you replace D = M/V... I don't get it :(
 
I replaced dm with pdV & then p with M/V.
 
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