Math Problem Statement

For a thin rod of mass M and length L, the Moment of Inertia for rotating around a pivot point located at the center of mass is known to be I_CM = (1/12)ML^2. What would be the new Moment of Inertia if the rod is instead rotated around a point that is some distance d between the center of mass and the end of the rod?

Solution

To solve the problem in the image, we need to address the shift in the rotation point using the parallel axis theorem, which states:

I=ICM+Md2I = I_{\text{CM}} + Md^2

Where:

  • II is the moment of inertia about the new axis.
  • ICMI_{\text{CM}} is the moment of inertia about the center of mass.
  • MM is the mass of the rod.
  • dd is the distance between the new axis of rotation and the center of mass.

Steps to Solve:

  1. Identify the moment of inertia at the center of mass for a thin rod. This is given by: ICM=112ML2I_{\text{CM}} = \frac{1}{12} M L^2 where LL is the length of the rod.

  2. Determine the distance dd from the center of mass to the new axis of rotation, as specified in the question.

  3. Substitute ICMI_{\text{CM}}, MM, and dd into the parallel axis theorem formula.

Let me know if you’d like me to calculate with specific values or clarify any part of the solution!

Follow-up Questions:

  1. What specific values of MM, LL, and dd should be used to calculate the new moment of inertia?
  2. Would you like to see a derivation of the parallel axis theorem?
  3. How does the mass distribution along the length of the rod affect these calculations?
  4. Would you like an explanation of how this applies to real-world scenarios like pendulums?
  5. Should we explore how this result changes for other geometrical objects?

Tip: Always visualize the axis of rotation and the distances involved when applying the parallel axis theorem.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Moment of Inertia
Parallel Axis Theorem

Formulas

I_CM = (1/12)ML^2
I = I_CM + Md^2

Theorems

Parallel Axis Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12