Constant rotational kinetic energy

In summary, a mass m attached to a string moves on a frictionless table with the string passing through a hole, while someone pulls on the string to keep it taut. Initially, the mass moves in a circle with kinetic energy [E][/0]. As the string is slowly pulled, the radius of the circle is halved. The question is asked about the constant rotational kinetic energy during the motion, despite work being done. This is because the angular momentum is constant due to the absence of torque.
  • #1
fib1123
Moved from a technical forum, so homework template missing.
A mass m is attached at the end of the string. The mass moves on a frictionless table, and the string passes through a hole in the table, under which someone is pulling on the string to make it taut at all times. Initially , the mass moves in a circle, with kinetic energy [E][/0] . The string is slowly pulled, until the radius of the circle is halved. How much work is done?
upload_2017-11-20_15-15-19.png

I calculated the work and the result is
upload_2017-11-20_15-16-15.png

but my question is: Why is the rotational kinetic energy constant during the motion?
 

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  • #2
fib1123 said:
A mass m is attached at the end of the spring.
String?
fib1123 said:
Why is the rotational kinetic energy constant during the motion?
Work is done, so kinetic energy must change. The angular momentum is constant, because there is not torque.
 

Related to Constant rotational kinetic energy

1. What is constant rotational kinetic energy?

Constant rotational kinetic energy is a measure of the energy possessed by a rotating object due to its motion. It is determined by the mass, velocity, and radius of the object, and remains constant as long as there is no external torque acting on the object.

2. How is constant rotational kinetic energy different from linear kinetic energy?

Constant rotational kinetic energy is different from linear kinetic energy in that it is associated with the rotational motion of an object, while linear kinetic energy is associated with the linear motion of an object. They both depend on the mass and velocity of the object, but rotational kinetic energy also takes into account the object's radius.

3. Can an object have constant rotational kinetic energy if it is not rotating at a constant speed?

No, an object can only have constant rotational kinetic energy if it is rotating at a constant speed. If the speed of rotation changes, the rotational kinetic energy will also change.

4. How is constant rotational kinetic energy related to angular momentum?

Constant rotational kinetic energy and angular momentum are closely related. Both are conserved quantities, meaning they remain constant in a closed system with no external forces acting on the object. In fact, the rotational kinetic energy of an object can be mathematically derived from its angular momentum.

5. What real-life applications does constant rotational kinetic energy have?

Constant rotational kinetic energy has many real-life applications, such as in the operation of vehicles with rotating parts (e.g. wheels, propellers), the movement of celestial bodies in space, and the function of machines like turbines and engines. Understanding and manipulating rotational kinetic energy is important in fields such as engineering, physics, and astronomy.

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