Proving the moment of inerta of a sphere: can someone help me please?

In summary, the conversation involves a difficulty in proving the moment of inertia of a sphere using the formula I=p(x^2)dv. The speaker suggests using spherical coordinates instead and provides the formula for the integral in spherical coordinates. They also express gratitude for anyone who can show them how to prove it.
  • #1
vInCEE-j
3
0
I'm having a difficulty in proving the moment of inertia of a sphere.
Using I=p(x^2)dv, we have to show that

I = (3m/r^3) * the integral (from 0 to r) of (x^3)((r^2) - (x^2))^(1/2) dx

where r=radius, x=the axis

I've been trying to prove it and yet no success. if anyone can show me how to do it, i'd greatly appreciate that.
thanks a lot
 
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  • #2
It would seem more reasonable to me to use spherical coordinates:
[tex]x= \rhocos(\theta)sin(\phi)[/tex] and [tex]dV= \rho^2 sin(\phi)d\rho\d\thetad\phi[/tex]
[tex]\int\rho x^2dV= p\int_{\phi=0}^\pi\int_{\theta= 0}^{2\pi}\int_{\rho= 0}^R(\rho^3cos^2(\theta)sin^3(\phi)d\rhod\thetad\phi[/tex]

(oops! Thanks, Fermat.)
 
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  • #3
HallsofIvy said:
It would seem more reasonable to me to use spherical coordinates:
[tex]x= \rho cos(\theta)sin(\phi)[/tex] and [tex]dV= \rho^2 sin(\phi)d\rho d\theta d\phi[/tex]
[tex]\int\rho x^2\ dV= \rho\int_{\phi=0}^\pi\int_{\theta= 0}^{2\pi}\int_{\rho= 0}^R \rho^4cos^2(\theta)sin^3(\phi) d\rho d\theta d\phi[/tex]

Ah, now I can see what it says :smile:
 
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FAQ: Proving the moment of inerta of a sphere: can someone help me please?

What is the moment of inertia of a sphere?

The moment of inertia of a sphere is a measure of its resistance to changes in rotational motion. It is calculated by multiplying the mass of the sphere by the square of its radius.

Why is it important to prove the moment of inertia of a sphere?

Knowing the moment of inertia of a sphere is important in understanding its behavior when rotating, such as how much torque is needed to accelerate or decelerate its rotation. It is also important in engineering and physics calculations involving rotational motion.

How can the moment of inertia of a sphere be proven?

The moment of inertia of a sphere can be proven experimentally by measuring its rotation and using the formula I = MR^2, where I is the moment of inertia, M is the mass of the sphere, and R is the radius. It can also be proven mathematically using calculus and the formula I = ∫r^2dm, where the integral is taken over the entire volume of the sphere.

What factors can affect the moment of inertia of a sphere?

The moment of inertia of a sphere can be affected by its mass, radius, and the distribution of mass within the sphere. For example, a sphere with a larger radius will have a larger moment of inertia than a sphere with a smaller radius, even if they have the same mass.

Can someone help me with proving the moment of inertia of a sphere?

Yes, there are many resources available to help with proving the moment of inertia of a sphere. You can consult textbooks, online tutorials, or seek assistance from a physics or engineering professor or tutor. It may also be helpful to work through practice problems to improve your understanding of the concept.

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