Moment of Inertia Race

This demonstration allows for comparison of objects with different mass distributions. The angular accelerations are compared for objects with a different moment of inertia. As two objects race down the ramp, the one with the most mass concentrated at the center will win.

* Equipment seen in the video may vary from equipment used in ND Demonstrations. See information and images below for ND equipment and setup.

Setup:

Set up a ramp on the lab table. Set the cylindrical objects next to it.

Select two objects. Place them at the top of the ramp and release. Stop the objects at the bottom of the ramp.

Repeat this process to compare objects of the same mass or shape but different mass distribution.

Notes:

None

Courses Used In:

  • PHY 10111

  • PHY 10310

  • PHY 10410

  • PHY 30210

Discussion and Polling Questions:

  • Does total mass affect rolling speed?

  • Which one will reach the end first? Which one will reach the end last?

Equipment Needed:

  • Ramp

  • Various Cylindrical Objects (Stored Together)