Cylinder race down a ramp

Back to 1Q - Rotational Dynamics
PIRA index: 1Q10.40

Description

The size, weight, and mass distribution of a cylinder influences its moment of inertia and determines the speed at which it will roll down a ramp.

Equipment

• inclined race track
• different cylinders

Instructions

Place the two contestants at the top of the track behind the stopper. Lift the stopper to start the race.

Possible match-ups are

1) cylinders have the same mass but one is solid and the other is hollow.

2) cylinders have the same shape but different masses.

3) cylinders have the diameter but one is solid and the other is hollow.

4) cylinders have the same diameter and mass but their mass distribution is different (one central and one around the edge).

Keywords

incline, plane, ramp, cylinder, race, roll, moment of inertia

Images & Movies

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  Figure1

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  Figure2