Math Problem Statement

A belt connects two pulleys with radii 3 in. and 5 in. as shown in the accompanying diagram. The velocity of point A on the belt is 25 ​ft/sec. What is the linear velocity and the angular velocity for point​ B? What is the linear velocity and the angular velocity for point​ C? ​Hint: Every point on the belt is moving at the same speed.

Solution

We are given a system with two pulleys of radii 3 inches and 5 inches, connected by a belt. The velocity of point A on the belt is 25 ft/sec, and we need to find the linear and angular velocities for points B and C on the pulleys.

Key Insights:

  • Linear velocity (v): The speed at which a point on the rim of the pulley moves. For both pulleys, every point on the belt moves at the same linear velocity (given as 25 ft/sec).
  • Angular velocity (ω): The rate at which the pulley rotates. It is related to the linear velocity by the formula:

v=rωv = r \cdot \omega where rr is the radius and ω\omega is the angular velocity in radians per second.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1. Find the linear velocity for point B:

Since the velocity of point A on the belt is given as 25 ft/sec, and point B is also on the belt, the linear velocity at point B is the same as at point A: vB=25 ft/secv_B = 25 \text{ ft/sec}

2. Find the angular velocity for point B:

Using the formula v=rωv = r \cdot \omega, where rB=5 in=512 ftr_B = 5 \text{ in} = \frac{5}{12} \text{ ft} (convert inches to feet): 25=512ωB25 = \frac{5}{12} \cdot \omega_B Solve for ωB\omega_B: ωB=25×125=60 radians per second\omega_B = \frac{25 \times 12}{5} = 60 \text{ radians per second}

3. Find the linear velocity for point C:

As mentioned earlier, the linear velocity is the same across the entire belt. Hence, the linear velocity at point C is: vC=25 ft/secv_C = 25 \text{ ft/sec}

4. Find the angular velocity for point C:

Using the same formula v=rωv = r \cdot \omega, with rC=3 in=312 ftr_C = 3 \text{ in} = \frac{3}{12} \text{ ft}: 25=312ωC25 = \frac{3}{12} \cdot \omega_C Solve for ωC\omega_C: ωC=25×123=100 radians per second\omega_C = \frac{25 \times 12}{3} = 100 \text{ radians per second}

Summary of Results:

  • Point B (on the 5-inch pulley):

    • Linear velocity: 25 ft/sec25 \text{ ft/sec}
    • Angular velocity: 60 rad/sec60 \text{ rad/sec}
  • Point C (on the 3-inch pulley):

    • Linear velocity: 25 ft/sec25 \text{ ft/sec}
    • Angular velocity: 100 rad/sec100 \text{ rad/sec}

Do you want more details on how the equations were derived, or any clarifications? Here are some questions you might explore next:

  1. How does the radius of a pulley affect its angular velocity?
  2. What would happen to the angular velocity if the belt velocity increased?
  3. How can we calculate the number of revolutions per second for each pulley?
  4. What is the relationship between linear and angular velocities for objects in circular motion?
  5. How does the belt's tension affect the pulley's motion?

Tip: Always convert all units to the same system (like feet or inches) before solving equations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Velocity
Angular Velocity
Circular Motion

Formulas

v = r * ω
Conversion from inches to feet (1 inch = 1/12 ft)

Theorems

Relationship between linear and angular velocity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12