Explain the phenomenon of decrement of angular momentum

In summary, the phenomenon of decrement of angular momentum refers to the gradual loss or reduction of angular momentum in a rotating system, often due to external torques or frictional forces. This decrease can impact the motion and stability of objects, causing them to slow down or change their rotational paths. The principle is governed by the conservation of angular momentum, where any change in a system's rotation must be balanced by an external influence, leading to observable effects in various physical contexts, such as in celestial mechanics and mechanical systems.
  • #1
AyushNaman
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Homework Statement
How can we explain the phenomenon of the decrement of angular momentum of a cubical block (let's say) that's moving on a horizontal rough surface, purely in the inertial frame of reference?
Relevant Equations
$$L=mvr$$
I tried to work out the net resultant postion of the normal force but could only come at a conclusion that normal force and mg, both pass through C.O.M(torques were considered about the edge of block).
 
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  • #2
AyushNaman said:
Homework Statement: How can we explain the phenomenon of the decrement of angular momentum of a cubical block (let's say) that's moving on a horizontal rough surface, purely in the inertial frame of reference?
Relevant Equations: $$L=mvr$$

I tried to work out the net resultant postion of the normal force but could only come at a conclusion that normal force and mg, both pass through C.O.M(torques were considered about the edge of block).
By "decrement" do you mean "decrease"? And what inertial frame are you referring to? The frame of the surface (assuming the surface is attached to a much larger "fixed" body to make it inertial? If the block is experiencing a deceleration with respect to the surface due to friction, a reference frame attached to the block will not be inertial.

Could you maybe upload a sketch of the problem? (use "Attach files" to upload a PDF or JPEG file)
 
  • #3
AyushNaman said:
Homework Statement: How can we explain the phenomenon of the decrement of angular momentum
About what axis? If the axis is at ground level, normal to the trajectory of the block, then the angular momentum of the block about the axis is, mvr, where r is the height of the mass centre. So as v decreases, mvr decreases.
I assume your question is "what torque causes this decrease?"

There are three forces on the block: gravity, the normal force and friction. Since the friction acts at ground level, it creates a torque tending to tip the block forward. That shifts the distribution of the normal force towards the front of the block. (So long as its average position stays within the footprint of the block it will not tip.) But gravity continues to act through the mass centre, so the N, mg pair produce a torque opposing the angular momentum of the block.
 
  • #4
AyushNaman said:
Homework Statement: How can we explain the phenomenon of the decrement of angular momentum of a cubical block (let's say) that's moving on a horizontal rough surface, purely in the inertial frame of reference?
Relevant Equations: $$L=mvr$$

I tried to work out the net resultant postion of the normal force but could only come at a conclusion that normal force and mg, both pass through C.O.M(torques were considered about the edge of block).
The angular momentum is a vector. It's magnitude is not mvr unless the two vectors ##\vec{r} ## and ##\vec{v} ## are perpendiuclar to each other. Is this the case in your setup?
 
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FAQ: Explain the phenomenon of decrement of angular momentum

What is angular momentum?

Angular momentum is a measure of the quantity of rotation of an object and is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. It is defined as the product of an object's moment of inertia and its angular velocity.

How is angular momentum conserved?

Angular momentum is conserved in a closed system where no external torques are acting. This means that the total angular momentum of the system remains constant over time. This principle is known as the conservation of angular momentum.

What causes the decrement of angular momentum?

The decrement of angular momentum occurs when an external torque is applied to a system. This external torque can be due to various factors such as friction, air resistance, or any other force that acts to slow down or alter the rotational motion of the object.

Can you provide an example of angular momentum decrement?

One common example is a spinning ice skater. When the skater extends their arms, they increase their moment of inertia, which causes a decrease in their angular velocity, thereby decreasing their angular momentum. Conversely, when they pull their arms in, their moment of inertia decreases, and their angular velocity increases, conserving angular momentum.

How does friction affect angular momentum?

Friction acts as an external torque that opposes the motion of a rotating object. This results in a decrease in angular velocity and, consequently, a decrement in angular momentum. For instance, a spinning wheel will gradually slow down and eventually stop due to the frictional forces acting at the axle and the contact point with the ground.

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