Rotational vs Translational Kinetic Energy of a Baseball

In summary, the ratio of rotational energy to translational kinetic energy for a pitched baseball with a radius of 3.8cm moving at 38m/s and spinning at 125 rad/s is 1:160. This is due to the moment of inertia for a uniform sphere being smaller than that of a non-uniform object.
  • #1
UrbanXrisis
1,196
1
The center of mass of a pitched base ball (radius=3.8cm) moves at 38m/s. The ball spins about an axis through its center of mass with an angular speed of 125 rad/s. Calculate the ratio of the rotational energy to the translational kinetic energy. Treat the ball as a uniform sphere.

[tex]0.5Iw^2:0.5mv^2[/tex]
[tex]I=mr^2=m(.038m)^2=m0.001444[/tex]
[tex]0.5m0.001444(125rad/s)^2:0.5m(39m/s)^2[/tex]
[tex]22.5625:1444[/tex]
[tex]1:64[/tex]

is this correct?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The moment of inertia for a uniform sphere is as follows:

[tex]I = \frac{2}{5}m\,r^{2}[/tex]
 
  • #3
thanks:

[tex]0.5Iw^2:0.5mv^2[/tex]
[tex]I=(2/5)mr^2=m(2/5)(.038m)^2=m5.776E-4[/tex]
[tex]0.5m(5.776E-4)(125rad/s)^2:0.5m(39m/s)^2[/tex]
[tex]9.025:1444[/tex]
[tex]1:160[/tex]

is this correct?
 
  • #4
Looks good to me..
 
  • #5
why is the kinetic energy so much larger than the rotational energy?
 

FAQ: Rotational vs Translational Kinetic Energy of a Baseball

What is the difference between rotational and translational kinetic energy of a baseball?

The main difference between rotational and translational kinetic energy of a baseball is the type of movement. Rotational kinetic energy refers to the energy of an object rotating around an axis, while translational kinetic energy refers to the energy of an object moving in a straight line.

How does rotational kinetic energy affect a baseball's trajectory?

Rotational kinetic energy can affect a baseball's trajectory by causing it to spin and creating a curved path. This is known as the Magnus effect, where the spin of the ball creates a difference in air pressure, causing it to move in a certain direction.

Which type of kinetic energy is more important in a baseball game?

Both rotational and translational kinetic energy are important in a baseball game. Translational kinetic energy helps the ball move in a straight line, while rotational kinetic energy can affect its trajectory and make it more difficult for the batter to hit.

Can rotational and translational kinetic energy be converted into each other?

Yes, rotational and translational kinetic energy can be converted into each other. This is known as the principle of conservation of energy, where energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred from one form to another.

How can understanding rotational and translational kinetic energy help in baseball training?

Understanding rotational and translational kinetic energy can help in baseball training by allowing players to better understand the mechanics of their movements and how it affects the ball's trajectory. It can also help in developing strategies for pitching, hitting, and fielding based on the principles of rotational and translational kinetic energy.

Back
Top