Torque/Rotational Dynamics HW Problem

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In summary, the problem involves a uniform thin rod of weight 100 N being supported horizontally by two vertical props. One support is kicked out at time t=0 and the force on the other support immediately thereafter needs to be found. The solution involves calculating the torque and angular acceleration about the pivot point, and using F=ma to determine the center of mass acceleration. This will lead to the conclusion that the force on the remaining support is 50 N.
  • #1
EndoBendo
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Homework Statement



A uniform thin rod of weight W = 100 N is supported horizontally by two vertical
props at its ends. At time t = 0 one of the these supports is kicked out. Find the
force on the other support immediately thereafter.


Homework Equations



Sum of forces??


The Attempt at a Solution



I really don't understand how to even approach this problem. My guess is that its 50 N because each support holds half of the rod. Any help would be greatly appreciated !
 
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  • #2
Ok , I have a new guess now lol... 100N, since it is the only remaining force acting in the + y direction
 
  • #3
I think your first guess was right, but I don't know how to solve this one.
I think it is a rotational motion question. It will rotate about the supported end. You can calculate the torque about that pivot and then find the angular acceleration. That is pretty much a complete description of the initial motion. What if you figure out from the rotational motion how the center of mass accelerates down and say it should fall the same way using F = ma where F is the total of the pivot force and the mg force?
 

FAQ: Torque/Rotational Dynamics HW Problem

What is torque and how is it different from force?

Torque is the measure of the turning force applied to an object. It is different from force because while force causes linear motion, torque causes rotational motion.

How is torque calculated?

Torque is calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance between the force and the axis of rotation. The formula for torque is: T = F x r, where T is torque, F is force, and r is the distance.

What is the relationship between torque and angular acceleration?

The relationship between torque and angular acceleration is similar to the relationship between force and linear acceleration. Torque is directly proportional to angular acceleration, meaning that as torque increases, angular acceleration also increases.

How does mass and distance from the axis of rotation affect torque?

The mass of an object does not affect torque, but the distance from the axis of rotation does. The larger the distance, the greater the torque will be at a given force. This is why it is easier to open a door by applying force at the doorknob rather than at the hinges.

What is the role of inertia in rotational dynamics?

Inertia is the resistance of an object to changes in its state of motion. In rotational dynamics, inertia affects an object's ability to resist changes in its rotational motion. Objects with larger moments of inertia will be more difficult to rotate compared to objects with smaller moments of inertia.

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