Angular Momentum: Testing Understanding With Sphere Rotation

In summary, when a sphere is rotated by applying a torque and then the torque is stopped, the net torque on the sphere becomes zero. This means that the axis of rotation remains constant and the moment of inertia stays the same. This follows the law of conservation of angular momentum, resulting in the sphere rotating at a constant angular velocity. It seems like your understanding is correct. If there is no torque, angular momentum is conserved.
  • #1
Alpharup
225
17
I just want to test my understanding of angular momentum here... I rotate a sphere in space such that the axis of rotation passes through it's diameter, by applying a torque. At one moment of time, I just stop applying the torque. Now, the net torque on the sphere is zero.There is no change in axis of rotation(Therefore the moment of inertia is constant) Thus, by the law conservation of angular momentum, the sphere rotates with a constant angular velocity.
Is my understanding right? Please explain me if Iam wrong.
 
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  • #2
That sounds completely correct to me. When there is no torque on the sphere, angular momentum is conserved.
 
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FAQ: Angular Momentum: Testing Understanding With Sphere Rotation

What is Angular Momentum?

Angular Momentum is a property of a rotating object that describes its resistance to changes in its rotational motion. It is a vector quantity that is dependent on an object's mass, velocity, and distance from its axis of rotation.

How is Angular Momentum calculated?

Angular Momentum (L) is calculated by multiplying an object's moment of inertia (I) by its angular velocity (ω). The formula is L=Iω.

What is the conservation of Angular Momentum?

The conservation of Angular Momentum states that the total angular momentum of a closed system remains constant. This means that if no external torques act upon a system, the initial angular momentum will be equal to the final angular momentum.

How is Angular Momentum related to rotation?

Angular Momentum is directly related to an object's rotation. As an object rotates faster, its angular momentum will increase. Additionally, the direction of an object's angular momentum is perpendicular to its rotational axis.

How is Angular Momentum tested with sphere rotation?

To test understanding of Angular Momentum with sphere rotation, an experiment can be conducted where a sphere is attached to a string and is spun around a central axis. By measuring the radius, mass, and velocity of the sphere, the angular momentum can be calculated and compared to the theoretical value. This experiment can also be modified to observe the effects of changing mass, velocity, and radius on an object's angular momentum.

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