What causes unhinged objects to rotate?

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In summary, when someone applies force at a point other than the center of mass, the object can start rotating.
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jbriggs444 said:
I thought I'd posted that already in #26. It is a requirement based on torque and angular momentum conservation.
jbriggs444 said:
I thought I'd posted that already in #26. It is a requirement based on torque and angular momentum conservation.

To say it with pompous verbosity...

Given the constraints on the motion of the myriad bits of pancake-stuff imposed by the rigidity of the pancake, the motion of the pancake can be completely characterized by a linear translation rate of the center of mass and a rotation rate of the bits as they orbit that center in lock-step.

Given the magnitude, direction and application point of an external impulse on a pancake that is initially at rest, there is exactly one possible linear motion and exactly one possible rotation rate that can result.

We have calculated said rates and determined that an on-the-center force results in no rotation.

[For simplicity, we have restricted our attention to two dimensions and rotation in the plane]
Thanks,
I got it!
If we take granted that angular momentum is always conserved then it makes a lot of sense.
 
<h2> What is the scientific explanation for the rotation of unhinged objects?</h2><p>The rotation of unhinged objects is caused by the principle of angular momentum. This principle states that an object will continue to rotate at a constant rate unless acted upon by an external force.</p><h2> How does the shape of an object affect its rotation?</h2><p>The shape of an object can greatly impact its rotation. Objects with a symmetrical shape tend to rotate more smoothly, while asymmetrical objects may experience wobbling or irregular rotation.</p><h2> Can the surface on which an object is placed affect its rotation?</h2><p>Yes, the surface on which an object is placed can have an impact on its rotation. A smooth surface with low friction will allow an object to rotate more easily, while a rough surface with high friction may impede its rotation.</p><h2> Are there any external factors that can cause an object to rotate?</h2><p>External factors such as air resistance, magnetic fields, and gravitational pull can all affect the rotation of an object. These forces can either speed up or slow down the rotation of an object, depending on their direction and strength.</p><h2> Can the speed of an object's rotation be changed?</h2><p>Yes, the speed of an object's rotation can be changed by applying an external force, such as pushing or pulling on the object. This will either increase or decrease the angular momentum of the object, resulting in a change in rotation speed.</p>

FAQ: What causes unhinged objects to rotate?

What is the scientific explanation for the rotation of unhinged objects?

The rotation of unhinged objects is caused by the principle of angular momentum. This principle states that an object will continue to rotate at a constant rate unless acted upon by an external force.

How does the shape of an object affect its rotation?

The shape of an object can greatly impact its rotation. Objects with a symmetrical shape tend to rotate more smoothly, while asymmetrical objects may experience wobbling or irregular rotation.

Can the surface on which an object is placed affect its rotation?

Yes, the surface on which an object is placed can have an impact on its rotation. A smooth surface with low friction will allow an object to rotate more easily, while a rough surface with high friction may impede its rotation.

Are there any external factors that can cause an object to rotate?

External factors such as air resistance, magnetic fields, and gravitational pull can all affect the rotation of an object. These forces can either speed up or slow down the rotation of an object, depending on their direction and strength.

Can the speed of an object's rotation be changed?

Yes, the speed of an object's rotation can be changed by applying an external force, such as pushing or pulling on the object. This will either increase or decrease the angular momentum of the object, resulting in a change in rotation speed.

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