Question on Rotational Dynamics of Yoyo

In summary, the conversation discusses a textbook example that involves a yoyo and its center of mass. The equation Vcm = Rw is mentioned, but it is questioned whether this applies to the example because the yoyo string is being pulled up, unlike the road in the textbook example. The possibility of a T force large enough to equal Mg is also brought up. However, it is then realized that the top of the string is being held fixed, leading to a solution to the confusion.
  • #1
fchen720
17
0

Homework Statement


Please see attached picture.

Homework Equations


Shown in picture

The Attempt at a Solution


It's a textbook example that has a solution.
At the middle right hand side of the picture, they say "From Eq... Vcm = Rw"
(Where 'cm' is centre of mass)
I don't understand why this is true.

Previously in the textbook they talked about rolling without slipping, where they mentioned a rubber tire rolling on cement. They reasoned that the velocity of the point of contact is zero relative to the road.
I.E Vcontact_point-rel-road = 0
Then Vcm-rel-road = Vcm-rel-contact_point + Vcontact_point-rel-road = Vcm-rel-contact_point = R * w
(Where w is angular speed and R is radius)
I understand all of that.

But I question the soundness of applying that to the example in question, because the yoyo string would be analogous to the road, but the road didn't move and the string does. And since the string is being pulled up, wouldn't Vcm be not as simple as just R*w? Wouldn't I have to account for the speed of the string?

And furthermore, looking at (10.14) in the picture, if my T force is large enough to equal Mg, would Vcm not just equal zero? And looking at (10.15), such a large T force would cause a large angular velocity.
So then Vcm =/= R*w

Is the something wrong with my reasoning?
 

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  • #2
fchen720 said:
the string is being pulled up
I don't see anything to suggest that. Looks like the top of the string is being held fixed.
 
  • #3
I'm face palming right now... Thank you so much.
 
  • #4
fchen720 said:
I'm face palming right now... Thank you so much.
ok!
 

FAQ: Question on Rotational Dynamics of Yoyo

1. What is rotational dynamics?

Rotational dynamics is the study of how objects rotate and spin around a fixed axis, and how forces and torques affect this motion.

2. How does rotational dynamics apply to yoyos?

Yoyos are a classic example of rotational dynamics, as they spin around a fixed axis (the string) and are affected by forces and torques (such as gravity and the tension in the string).

3. What is the moment of inertia in a yoyo?

The moment of inertia is a measure of an object's resistance to rotational motion. In a yoyo, the moment of inertia is affected by the distribution of mass along the yoyo's axis of rotation.

4. How does the string length affect the rotational dynamics of a yoyo?

The length of the string can affect the rotational dynamics of a yoyo in two ways. First, a longer string will increase the moment of inertia, making it more difficult to spin the yoyo. Second, a longer string will increase the distance between the yoyo and the hand, causing the yoyo to slow down due to air resistance.

5. Can you explain the concept of precession in relation to yoyos?

Precession is the phenomenon of a spinning object's axis of rotation moving in a circular motion. In yoyos, this can be seen when the yoyo is tilted from its vertical axis and begins to rotate in a circular motion around the string. This is due to the torque of gravity acting on the center of mass of the yoyo.

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