Calculating Rotation Rate from Change of Angle

In summary, the reflected beam will rotate at twice the rate of the incident angle, resulting in a rate of rotation of 200 rpm. The equation 2θ = 2 dθ/dt is incorrect. The correct explanation is that the instantaneous angular velocity of the beam will be double, but it will take a minute to complete a full rotation. During the rotation between 90° and 270°, there will be no reflection.
  • #1
hidemi
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Homework Statement
A plane mirror is in a vertical plane and is rotating about a vertical axis at 100 rpm. A horizontal beam of light is incident on the mirror. The reflected beam will rotate at:

The answer is 200 rpm.
Relevant Equations
2θ = 2 dθ/dt
If we know the change of angle is twice the incident angle, then the rate of rotation is 2*100 rpm = 200 rpm. Is there a better explanation of it?
 
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  • #2
hidemi said:
Homework Statement:: A plane mirror is in a vertical plane and is rotating about a vertical axis at 100 rpm. A horizontal beam of light is incident on the mirror. The reflected beam will rotate at:

The answer is 200 rpm.
Relevant Equations:: 2θ = 2 dθ/dt

If we know the change of angle is twice the incident angle, then the rate of rotation is 2*100 rpm = 200 rpm. Is there a better explanation of it?
Firstly, describe the reflected angle with respect to as a function of the angle of the plane.

Secondly, take the derivative.

[Edit: also, your "2θ = 2 dθ/dt" equation is incorrect.]
 
  • #3
collinsmark said:
Firstly, describe the reflected angle with respect to as a function of the angle of the plane.

Secondly, take the derivative.

[Edit: also, your "2θ = 2 dθ/dt" equation is incorrect.]
I got it. Thanks!
 
  • #4
The instantaneous angular velocity of the beam will be double, but it will take a minute to complete a full rotation, if I understand the problem correctly.
There will be no reflection while the mirror rotates between 90°and 270°
 
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FAQ: Calculating Rotation Rate from Change of Angle

How do you calculate rotation rate from change of angle?

The formula for calculating rotation rate from change of angle is: rotation rate = change in angle / time. This means that you divide the change in angle (in radians) by the time it took for that change to occur (in seconds).

Can rotation rate be negative?

Yes, rotation rate can be negative. This indicates that the object is rotating in the opposite direction of the initial rotation.

What units are used for rotation rate?

Rotation rate is typically measured in radians per second (rad/s) or degrees per second (deg/s). These units represent the amount of rotation occurring in one second.

How is rotation rate different from angular velocity?

Rotation rate and angular velocity are often used interchangeably, but they are technically different. Rotation rate is the measure of how fast an object is rotating, while angular velocity is the measure of the object's rotational speed and direction.

Can rotation rate change over time?

Yes, rotation rate can change over time. This can occur if the object's angular velocity changes, meaning it either speeds up or slows down its rotation. The change in rotation rate can also be affected by external forces acting on the object, such as friction or torque.

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