Moment of inertia is the force required to change the speed of a rotating object. It was introduced by Leonhard Euler in 1730 and is calculated using the formula I = km r2. Objects with an awkward shape require experiments to determine velocity. Practical applications include determining how quickly a car will spin out of control and in sports such as golf, baseball, and diving.
A moment of inertia refers to the force required to cause a rotating object to change speed. All rotating objects have an axis or point around which they rotate. Some objects require more force to change the speed of this rotation than others. Those that easily change their rotational speed have a low moment of inertia, while those that are difficult to change have a high one.
This concept was first introduced by the Swiss mathematician and physicist Leonhard Euler in 1730. He published his theory in the book entitled Theoria Motus Corporum Solidorum Seu Rigidorum or Theory of Motion of Solid or Rigid Bodies. The formula used to calculate it is I = km r2, where I equals the moment of inertia, k equals the constant of inertia which depends on the shape of the object, m equals the mass and r equals the distance between l rotational axis and mass. For bodies with an awkward shape and no apparent constants, a series of experiments can help determine velocity.
A common example is to think of an ice skater who is spinning. As the skater initiates a rotation, he extends his arms and moves away from his body to create a slow rotation. When he reaches the end of the top, he tucks his arms in and squeezes its frame, making it spin much faster. He has consolidated its mass closer to the axis, reduced its moment of inertia and reduced the effort required to turn fast. Without any change in strength, he is able to accelerate his spin speed.
There are many practical applications for this measurement. Automakers study this carefully to determine how quickly a car will spin out of control. The goal is to create high momentum so the car is less likely to lose control in a spin.
Many sports also use the concept, with golf, baseball and diving topping the list. Divers are concerned with what angles they can use to create the lowest momentum and fastest rotation to complete the motion and enter the water seamlessly. Both baseball players and golfers work to create a smooth and effective swing, to hit the ball with the right angles and the force needed to fly it far without overusing muscle.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
