- #1
jstep
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Homework Statement
I am asked to find the angular velocity of a falling rod in the instant that the rod meets the horizontal. The system is set up in this image:
The only force acting on the rod is gravity
Homework Equations
U = (1/2)MgL
K = (1/2)Iw2
Kf + Uf = Ki + Ui
The Attempt at a Solution
Can I solve this by using the potential energy of the rod with this equation:
U = (1/2)MgL
and then equating that to the Mechanical Energy at the point that it meets the horizontal?
I know the moment of inertia of the rod so if I do (1/2)MgL = (1/2)Iw2 and solve for omega, is that correct?
Also, when finding the initial potential energy, should i use the full length of the rod or only the length to the center of mass?
Thank you!