ROTATIONAL MOTION

for GENERAL PHYSICS 1/ Grade 12

Quarter 2/ Module 1

1
 FOREWORD

This Self-learning Kit is designed to holistically developed STEM Students.

The activities provided are MELC-aligned and is simplified for better
understanding.

This kit deals with calculations on the moment of inertia and magnitude &
direction of torque. Students will also learn to describe rotational quantities.
Determining a system to be in static equilibrium or not is also given emphasis.

Moreover, concepts presented will lead students to apply rotational

kinematic relations for systems with constant angular accelerations. They will also
apply the torque-angular momentum relation. Students’ skills in solving static
equilibrium problems will also be enhanced.

Thus, this kit may become an instrument in the development of students

who are critical problem solvers, lifetime learners, responsible stewards of Mother
Earth, truth seekers, impartial decision makers, responsive and ingenious citizens,
and effective communicators.

2
 OBJECTIVES

At the end of this Self-Learning Kit, you should be able to:

K: describe rotational quantities using vectors;
S: calculate the moment of inertia about a given axis;
: calculate magnitude and direction of torque;
: solve static equilibrium problems; and
A: display appreciation on the application of rotational motion to people’s
daily lives.

LEARNING COMPETENCIES

Calculate the moment of inertia about a given axis of single-object and

multiple-object systems (STEM_GP12RED-IIa-1).

Calculate magnitude and direction of torque using the definition of

torque as a cross product (STEM_GP12REDIIa-3).

Describe rotational quantities using vectors (STEM_GP12REDIIa-4).

Determine whether a system is in static equilibrium or not

(STEM_GP12REDIIa-5).

Apply the rotational kinematic relations for systems with constant angular
accelerations (STEM_GP12REDIIa-6).

Determine angular momentum of different systems (STEM_GP12REDIIa-9).

Apply the torque-angular momentum relation (STEM_GP12REDIIa- 10).

Solve static equilibrium problems in contexts but not limited to see-saws,

cable-hinge-strut system, leaning ladders, and weighing a heavy suitcase
using a small bathroom scale (STEM_GP12REDIIa-8).

3
I. WHAT HAPPENED
PRE-TEST:
I. CONCEPTS IN A BOX: Complete the chart by supplying the right
words/phrases related to rotational motion. The words/phrases are
provided in the box below. Write your answers on your
notebook/Activity Sheet.

Kepler’s laws of planetary motion motion

kinematics motion about an axis law of periods
escape velocity law of equal areas

law of ellipses angular quantities planetary motion

4
 II. MODIFIED TRUE OR FALSE: Read each statement carefully. Write
TORQUE if the statement is true and FORCE if it is false. Write your
answer on your notebook/answer sheet.
1. Torques are associated with rotation.
2. Moment arm of a force is the perpendicular distance from the force’s line
of action to the axis of rotation.
3. If you want to make an object move, apply force.
4. The other name for moment of arm is leverage.
5. Torque is the quantity that measures the ability of a force to rotate n
object around some axis.
6. Positive torque is when turned counterclockwise and negative torque is
when turned clockwise.
7. The center of mass is the perpendicular distance between the fulcrum
and the point of application of the force.
8. Inertia is the measurement of a rotation caused by a force.
9. Fulcrum or pivot point refers to the point of rotation.
10. Newton-meter is the unit of torque.

II. WHAT I NEED TO KNOW

DISCUSSION:

INERTIA
Inertia is defined as the tendency of an object at rest to remain at rest
and an object in motion to stay moving in a straight line at a constant velocity.
A similar principle applies to objects moving in rotational motion.
Moment Of Inertia
Moment of inertia also known as rotational inertia, is defined as the
property of a rotating body to resist change in its state of rotation. The SI unit for
the moment of inertia is kg· m2.

An object rotating about an axis tends to

continue rotating about that axis unless an
unbalanced external force (torque) tries to stop
it. This is because objects tend to resist any
change in their state of motion. This resistance is
physically embodied in the mass of the object.
Moment of inertia depends on the
distribution of the mass. A mass which is at
greater distance from the axis of rotation has a
Figure 1. Dumbbell B is easier to
greater moment of inertia compared to the
rotate because its masses are
same mass which is near the axis of rotation. near its axis of rotation; hence
Thus, dumbbell A is more difficult to rotate than the dumbbells’ moment of
dumbbell B. inertia is smaller. The opposite
can be said of dumbbell a.
(Padua and Crisostomo 2003)
5
 Figure 2. The moment of inertia
in A comparatively small
because the limbs are drawn
near the spin axis. The moment
of inertia in B increases because
of the bent knees. The moment
of inertia reaches its maximum in
C because of the extended arms
and legs which are
perpendicular to the axis.
(Padua and Crisostomo, 2003)

The moment of inertia gives a measurement of the resistance of the body

to a change in its rotational motion. The larger the moment of inertia of a body,
the more difficult it is to put that body into rotational motion or the larger the
moment of inertia of body, the more difficult it is to stop its rotational motion.
The moment of inertia of a particle about an axis is obtained by
multiplying the mass by the square of its distance from the axis.

𝐼 = 𝑚𝑟2

where
𝐼 is the moment of inertia;
𝑚 is mass; and
𝑟 is distance from the axis of rotation

For a system made up of several particles, the moment of inertia of the

system is the sum of the individual moments of inertia.

𝐼 = 𝑚1𝑟1 2 + 𝑚2𝑟22 + 𝑚3𝑟32 + ⋯

Radius of gyration (𝑘) is the distance from an axis of rotation where the
mass of a body may be assumed to be concentrated without altering the
moment of inertia of the body about that axis. Radius of gyration is analogous to
the center of mass.

6
 It is important to remember that when moment of inertia is asked for, it is a
must to determine first about what axis the rotation will takes place. Because, 𝑟
is different from each axis and, since 𝐼 differs as 𝑟2, 𝐼 is also different from each
axis.

Calculus is usually used to solve for the moment of inertia. However, for
simplicity, figure 3 below shows how values of the moments of inertia for some
symmetrical bodies about different axis can be determined.

Figure 3. Moment of inertia of uniform and regular shaped bodies (Silverio, 2017)

7
Example:

8
✓ The moment of inertia also known as rotational inertia is the
measure of the resistance of a body to a change in its
rotational motion.
✓ The larger the moment of inertia of a body, the more difficult it
is to change its rotational motion.
✓ Radius of gyration (k) is the distance from an axis of rotation
where the mass of a body may be assumed to be
concentrated without altering the moment of inertia of the
body about that axis.
✓ Before solving for the moment of inertia, consider first the
shape of the object and its specified axis of rotation.
 TORQUE
To understand the concept of torque,
we begin by investigating the rotation of a
door hinged at one edge. Try pulling the
door with a constant force applied at
different points (Figure 4a) and at varying
angles (Figure 4b). This simple activity shows
that it is easiest to rotate the door when the
force is applied farthest from the hinge. That
is the reason why doorknobs are placed at
the other edge of the door farthest from the
hinge. Furthermore, rotation is greatest when
force is applied perpendicularly to the door.
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xH9jPAs6
a body on which it acts is called torque or
moment of force. The Greek letter tau 𝜏 is Figure 4. The orientation of the
usually used to represent torque. Torque can applied force affects the rotation
of the door.
be determined by multiplying the force

applied F by the perpendicular distance from the axis of rotation to the line
along which the force acts. This perpendicular distance is called moment arm or
lever arm, represented by r. The magnitude of the torque can be calculated
using,

Maximum torque can be obtained if θ is 90°. The value for sin 90° is 1. If the
angle is perpendicular or is in 90°, you can use this formula,

𝜏 = 𝐹𝑟

This formula is consistent with the definition of torque as a cross product of

force and displacement/distance.

An equivalent way of finding torque associated with a given force into

components parallel and perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The parallel
component F1 exerts no torque. F2 also exerts no torque since the force applied

10
is directed to the axis of rotation. The perpendicular component of the force F3
produces torque.

Retrieved from https://images.app.goo.gl/tBN7qxhuNfpjPM3M9

Figure 5. Determining torque using the orientation of the

force being applied
The SI unit of

torque is meter· newton (m· N). Torque is a vector quantity. Torque may also be
positive or negative depending on the sense of rotation. By convention, torque
is positive if it tends to produce counterclockwise rotation. It is negative if it tends
to produce clockwise rotation. The greater torque applied to an object, the
greater its tendency to rotate.

Torque is also applied when you turn on a water faucet or tighten a nut
with a wrench.

Example:
1. A particle located at 0.56 m is acted upon by a constant force of 4.7 N.
The force makes the particles to rotate in clockwise direction. Calculate
the torque about the origin that the particle experiences as a result of this
force.

Given: r = 0.56 m Find: 𝜏

F = 4.7 N

Assuming that the angle is 90°,

𝜏 = F r sin ϴ
= (4.7 N) (0.56 m) (sin 90)
= 2.632 N·m
= 2.6 N·m

11
 2. If the force applied is perpendicular to the
handle of the wrench as shown in the
diagram, find:
a. torque exerted by the force about the
center of the nut
b. type of rotation

Given:
F = 2.5 N
r = 15 cm = 0.15 m
ϴ = 90˚ (since the arm is perpendicular to the handle of the wrench)

a. Find 𝜏

𝜏 = F r sin 𝚹
= (2.5 N)(0.15 m) (sin 90)
= 0.375 N · m
= 0.38 N · m

b. Type of rotation
The rotation is counterclockwise since the force is pointed upwards
(right-left) based from the picture.

.· . The torque is positive since the rotation is in counterclockwise direction.

✓ Torque is the cross product between displacement and

force.
✓ Moment of force or lever arm is the perpendicular distance
from the axis of rotation to the direction or line of action of
the force.
✓ Torque may also be positive or negative depending on the
sense of rotation.
✓ By convention, torque is positive if it tends to produce
counterclockwise rotation. It is negative if it tends to produce
clockwise rotation.
✓ The greater torque applied to an object, the greater its
tendency to rotate.
✓

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 ROTATIONAL QUANTITIES
Rotation refers to the motion of a body turning about an axis, where each
particle of the body moves along a circular path. Examples of rotation include
the movement of the hands of a clock, the motion of the blades of an electric
fan, and Earth rotating about its axis.

Physicists use angular quantities to describe rotation. The equations of

kinematics and dynamics of rectilinear motion can be written in terms of angular
quantities. Each of the rectilinear motion quantities has its own rotational
analog. For the purpose of distinction, Greek letters are used to represent
angular quantities.

Kinematics of Rotation
Consider a rotating disk with a particle on its
edge. The angular position is represented by 𝚹.
When the disk rotates from an initial position 𝚹0 to a
final position 𝚹, its angular displacement represented
by Δ𝚹 is

∆𝜃 = 𝜃 − 𝜃0 (Equation 1) Figure 6. Rotational

Quantities (Silverio, 2017)
The units for angular displacement may be
degrees, radians, or revolutions. Recall from
trigonometry that

1 revolution = 360° = 6.28 radians = 2 π radians

The linear distance s along an arc subtended

by an angle 𝚹 in radians in a circle of radius r is given
by Retrieved From
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cYLbpV5Ekd6d6
s=r𝚹 (Equation 2)
Figure 7. The angular speeds
Angular velocity is defined in analogy with of the hour hand and minute
linear velocity. Instead of liner displacement, hand of a clock are 30°/h
angular displacement is used. and 6°/min, respectively.

Angular velocity ω is the rate at which angular displacement changes

with time. In equation form,

∆𝜃
𝝎=
𝑡
(Equation 3)

Angular velocity may be expressed in deg/s, rad/s, or rev/s. The linear

velocity of the bug on the disk has a magnitude of s/t. Thus, the relationship
between angular velocity and linear velocity may be obtained using Eq. 2 and
13
Eq. 3. Dividing both sides of Eq. 2 by t gives

𝑠 = 𝑟∆𝜃
𝑠 ∆𝜃
=𝑟
𝑡 𝑡

𝑣 = 𝑟w (Equation 4)
As in the case of linear motion, rotational motion may also be
accelerated. Angular acceleration 𝛼 is the time rate of change of angular
velocity.
𝝎−𝝎0
𝛼=
𝑡
(Equation 5)

Angular acceleration may be expressed in deg/s2, rad/s2, or rev/s2. Linear

acceleration a and angular acceleration 𝛼 are related as follows:

a = r𝛼 (Equation 6)

The equations of kinematics developed for constant acceleration for

linear motion can be rewritten in angular quantities and may be used to solve
problems on rotational motion. Table 1 shows the kinematic equations for
translation (linear) motion with their rotational motion counterparts.

Example:
A rider notices that the wheels of his bicycle make 12 rev in 15 s.

a. What is the average angular speed of the wheel in radians?

b. What distance in meters does the wheel travel if its radius is 33 cm?

Given:
𝜃 = 12 rev
t = 15s
r = 33 cm = 0.33 m
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a. Find average angular speed 𝜔.
Convert first revolutions to radians.

6.28 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑛
𝜃 = (12 𝑟𝑒𝑣) ( ) = 75.36 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑠
1 𝑟𝑒𝑣

The average angular speed may be computed by using Eq. 3

𝜃
𝜔=
𝑡
75.36 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑠
=
15 𝑠
= 5.024 𝑟𝑎𝑑/𝑠
5.0 𝑟𝑎𝑑/𝑠
b. Find linear distance.

The linear distance traveled by the wheel may be computed using Eq.
2
s=r𝚹
= (0.33 m)(75.36 rad)
= 24.8688 m
= 25 m

✓ Rotation is the motion of the body turning about an axis,

where each particle of the body moves along a circular
path.
✓ Kinematics of rotation are similar to those of linear motion.
These equations may be obtained by using the following
substitutions:
▪ Angle 𝜃 for distance d
▪ Angular velocity 𝜔 for velocity v
▪ Angular acceleration 𝛼 for acceleration a
▪ Torque 𝜏 for force F
▪ Moment of inertia I for mass m

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 STATIC EQUILIBRIUM

Statics is concerned with the calculation of forces acting on and within

structures that are in equilibrium. The basic principles were discovered early. The
fundamentals of levers, inclined planes and other principles were used by early
civilizations in the construction of huge structures like the pyramids. Archimedes
introduced the concept of lever equilibrium as early as 287-212 BC. Leonardo
da Vinci conceptualized moments in relation to equilibrium in the latter part of
the fifteenth century.

Static equilibrium is defined as a body at rest having zero acceleration

and zero net force.

Center of Gravity
The center of mass or center of gravity is a useful concept when dealing
with equilibrium problems.

The center of gravity of a body is the

point where its entire weight may be assumed
to be concentrated. The body’s center of
gravity and center of mass are identical on the
assumption that the body is small enough for g
not to vary over its extents. The center of
gravity may be inside or outside the body. For
a circular plate, the center of gravity is at the
center and is inside it. For the traditional
doughnut, the center of gravity is also at the
center but outside the doughnut. Retrieved from
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For a regular-shaped object, the center of wk6s5VcqADT8

gravity is its geometric center. If the object is Figure 8. The simplest way to
irregular in shape, the center of gravity may be find the center of gravity of
determined experimentally either by balancing or an object is to balance it on
using the plumb line method. a knife edge. The center of
gravity is just above the point
of support.
Whether a body is stable or unstable

depends upon the location of its center of gravity. In general, an object will be
stable if a plumb line drawn from its center of gravity falls within its base. This is
called the condition of stability. Some objects are easier to knock over than
others even though they will not tip over themselves. In this sense, the greater
the weight, the broader the base and the lower the center of gravity, the
greater is the stability of the object.

16
 Retrieved from Retrieved from
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eNbvS7
Figure 9. The Marina Sands Hotel in Singapore is a
Figure 10. The Leaning Tower of
perfect example where principle of statics, structural
Pisa in Italy satisfies the condition
loads and rigid body equilibrium are considered.
for stability.

Conditions for Equilibrium

Newton’s first law of motion applied to translation and rotation gives the
so-called conditions for equilibrium.

The first condition for equilibrium states that an object that has no net
force acting on it is said to be in translational equilibrium. In equation form,

∑F = 0

Force, being a vector quantity may be resolved into its horizontal and
vertical components. Thus, the first condition for equilibrium may be equivalently
expressed in the form,

∑F x = 0 ; ∑F y = 0 ; and ∑F z = 0

A necessary condition for a body to be in rotational equilibrium is that the

sum of the torques about any point must be zero.

∑𝜏=0

This condition is known as the second condition for equilibrium.

17
Equilibrant

If the resultant of the forces acting on a body is not zero, the addition of
another force called the equilibrant is needed to balance the resultant to
produce translational equilibrium. This force is equal on magnitude to the
resultant force but oppositely directed. If the resultant of the forces acting on a
body is zero, then any of the forces is the equilibrant of the other forces.

Example:
Eight boys are equally spaced about a
pushball and each exerts a force upon it toward
the center, as shown. Each boy in positions A, C
and E exerts a force of 70 N and the rest of the
boys exert 50 N each. What force is needed to
keep the ball at rest?

Given:
FA = 70 N south FB = 50 N southwest
FC = 70 N west FD = 50 N northwest
FE = 70 N north FF = 50 N northeast
FG = 50 N east FH = 50 N southeast

Solution:
From the figure, we can see that the forces exerted at the following
positions cancel out: FA and FE, FB and FF, and FD and FH.

FA = FE FB = FF FD = FH
70 N = 70 N 50 N = 50 N 50 N = 50 N

The net force that will accelerate the ball is the resultant of the forces
exerted at positions G and C, which is 20 N, west.

FG ≠ FC Take note, a negative and

50 N ≠ 70 N positive forces are used to
indicate that the forces are in
x = FG + FC opposing directions.
= 50 N + (-70 N)
= 50 N – 70 N
= |−20 N|
= 20 N

To keep the ball at rest, a force of 20 N east must be applied.

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 POINTS TO PONDER
✓ Static equilibrium is defined as a body at rest having zero
acceleration and zero net force.
✓ The center of gravity of a body is the point where its entire
weight may be assumed to be concentrated.
✓ The center of gravity of regularly shaped (symmetrical)
objects is located at their geometric centers. However,
some objects have their centers of gravity located toward
their thicker (massive) end and some objects located
outside them.
✓ There are two conditions for a body to be in rotational
equilibrium:
▪ The vector sum of all forces acting on it must
be zero. (Translational)
▪ The sum of all torques about any point must be
zero. (Rotational)

ROTATIONAL KINEMATICS

At this point, we covered a lot of the basics about how things move. But
we’ve mostly been focusing on only one type of motion…translational motion. If
you can recall, translational motion is that which something moves through
space but doesn’t rotate. For example, a soccer player kicks a soccer ball. In
translational motion, we are perhaps interested in calculating how fast the ball is
moving and the distance it would cover. However, in the game of soccer, it also
important to study how the ball is rotating around its axis as it also does affect its
movement through space.

In rotational motion, similar to translational motion, we will still be

discussing familiar quantities like position or displacement, velocity and
acceleration. Many of the equations we used in our study of rotational motion
will surely be familiar to you already although with some important differences.
For example, instead of positions, there are angles in rotational motion and
instead of following points along a line; we shall look at points along an arc.

Just by using our intuition, we can begin to see how rotational quantities
like θ (theta), ω (omega) and 𝛼 (alpha) are related to one another. For
example, if a motorcycle wheel has a large angular acceleration for a fairly
long time; it ends up spinning rapidly and rotates through many revolutions. In
more technical terms, if the wheel’s angular acceleration, 𝛼 , is large for a long

19
period of time t, then the final angular velocity, ω, and angle of rotation θ are
large. The wheel’s rotational motion is exactly analogous to the fact that the
motorcycle’s large translational acceleration produces a large final velocity,
and the distance traveled will also be large.

Kinematics is the description of motion. The kinematics of rotational

motion describes the relationships among rotation angle, angular velocity,
angular acceleration, and time.

Let us start by finding an equation relating ω, 𝛼 and t. To determine this

equation, we recall a familiar kinematic equation for translational, or straight-
line, motion:

v = vo + at ; a is constant

Note that in rotational motion a = at, and we shall use the symbol a for
tangential or linear acceleration from now on. As in linear kinematics, we
assume a is constant, which means that the angular acceleration 𝛼 (alpha) is
also constant, because a = r . Now, let us substitute v = rω and a = r 𝛼 into the
linear equation above:

rω = rωo + r 𝛼 t

The radius r cancels in the equation, yielding ω = ωo + 𝛼 t, where ωo is the

initial angular velocity. This last equation is a kinematic relationship among ω,
and t --- that is, it describes their relationship without reference to forces or
masses that may affect rotation. It is also precisely analogous in form to its
translational counterpart.

Kinematics for rotational motion is completely analogous to translational

kinematics. Kinematics is concerned with the description of motion without
regard to force or mass. We will find that translational kinematic quantities, such
as displacement, velocity, and acceleration have direct analogs in rotational
motion.

20
 In these equations, the subscript 0 (zero) denotes initial values, and the
average angular velocity 𝜔̅, and average velocity 𝑣̅ are defined as follows:
𝜔0 + 𝜔 𝑣0 + 𝑣
𝜔
̅= 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣̅ =
2 2
The equations in the table above can be used to solve any rotational or
translational kinematics problem in which both linear and angular accelerations
are constant.
Before we dive into some practical examples, let discuss about some
important conventions and concepts involving uniform circular motion.

ROTATION ANGLE
When objects rotate about its axis, for example, when a CD (compact
disc) in the figure below rotates about its center, each point in the object follows
a circular path, an arc. Consider a line from the center of the CD to its edge.
Each pit used to record sounds along this line moves through the same angle in
the same amount of time. The rotation angle is the amount of rotation and is
analogous to linear distance. We define the rotation angle Δθ to be the ratio of
the arc length Δs, to the radius of curvature:

∆𝑠
∆𝜃 =
𝑟

All points on a CD travel in circular arcs. The pits along a line from the
center to the edge all move through the same angle Δθ in a time Δt.

The arc length Δs is the distance traveled along a circular path as shown
in the figure below. Note that r is the radius of curvature of the circular path.

We know that for one complete revolution, the arc length is the
circumference of a circle of radius r. The circumference of a circle is 2πr. Thus
21
for one complete revolution, the rotation angle is

2𝜋𝑟
∆𝜃 = = 2𝜋.
𝑟

This result is the basis for defining the units used to measure rotation angles,
Δθ to be radians (rad), defined so that 2π rad = 1 revolution.

A comparison of some useful angles expressed in both degrees and

radians is shown in the table below.

If Δθ = 2π rad, the CD in our example has made one complete revolution,

and every point on the CD is back to its original position. Because there are 360
degrees in a circle or one revolution, the relationship between radians and
degrees is thus, 2π rad = 360 degrees.
360°
So that 1 𝑟𝑎𝑑 = ≈ 57.3°.
2𝜋

ANGULAR VELOCITY

How fast is an object rotating? We define angular speed, ω, as the rate of

change of an angle. In symbols, this is
∆𝜃
𝜔= ,
∆𝑡

where an angular rotation Δθ takes place in a time Δt. The greater the rotation
angle in a given amount of time, the greater the angular velocity. The units for
angular velocity are radians per second (rad/s).

22
 Angular velocity ω is analogous to linear velocity v. To get the precise
relationship between angular and linear velocity, we again consider a pit on the
rotating CD. This pit moves an arc length Δs in a time Δt, and so it has a linear
velocity
∆𝑠
𝑣= .
∆𝑡
∆𝑠
From ∆𝜃 = , we see that ∆𝑠 = 𝑟∆𝜃. Putting this into the expression for v
𝑟
gives
𝑟∆𝜃
𝑣= = 𝑟𝜔.
∆𝑡

We write this relationship in two different ways and gain two different
insights:
𝑣
𝑣 = 𝑟𝜔 𝑜𝑟 𝜔 =
𝑟

The first relationship in v = rω or ω = v/r states that the linear velocity Is

proportional to the distance from the center of rotation, thus, it is largest for a
point on the rim (largest radius, r)as you might expect. We can also call this
linear speed of a point on the rim as the tangential speed.

The second relationship in v = rω or ω = v/r can be illustrated by

considering the tire of a moving car. Note that the speed of a point on the rim
of the tire is the same as the speed v, of the car. Look at the illustration below.
The faster the car moves, the faster the tire spins --- larger speed, v, means a
large ω, because v = rω. Similarly, a larger-radius tire rotating at the same
angular velocity ω, will produce a greater linear speed for the car.

To sum up, angular displacement (θ), is the angle swept out by any line
passing through a rotating body that intersects the axis of rotation. This value is
positive if going counter-clockwise, negative if going clockwise and its SI unit is
radians (sometimes its rpm).
23
 Angular velocity (ω), is derivative of the change of angular displacement
over a change of time. Counterclockwise rotation is positive angular velocity
and negative if clockwise.

Angular acceleration (𝘢), is the change of angular velocity per unit time
and measured in radians per second squared (rad/s2).

24
Discussion points for Example 1:

This example illustrates that relationships among rotational quantities are

highly analogous to those among linear quantities. We also see in this example
how linear and rotational quantities are connected. The answers to the
questions are realistic. After unwinding for 2 seconds, the reel is found to spin at
220 rad/s, which is 2,100 rpm. The amount of fishing line played out is 9.00
meters, about right for when the big fish bites.

25
 ANGULAR MOMENTUM

Have you seen a spinning ice skater on the rink? Notice that the skater
spins faster or slower depending on whether she stretches one of her arms or
puts both of them close to her chest. This can be explained using the concept of
angular momentum.

You have previously learned a moving body has momentum. The linear or
translational momentum also has a rotational analogue for rotational motion.
Recall that linear momentum is 𝑝⃗ = 𝑚𝑣 . The rotational analogue to this is called
angular momentum and is represented by the symbol L. Just like in linear
momentum, the magnitude of angular momentum is defined as the product of
an inertial quantity and speed. Here is the general equation for L. The SI unit for L
is kg∙m2/s.

𝐿 = 𝐼𝜔

Recall that the second law of motion can be expresses in terms of the
time rate of change in momentum.

∆𝑝⃗
∑𝐹 =
∆𝑡

Similarly, you can express the rotational analogue of Newton’s second law
in terms of angular momentum as follows:

∆𝜔 𝐼 (𝜔 − 𝜔0) 𝐼𝜔 − 𝐼𝜔0
∑ 𝜏 = 𝐼𝛼 = 𝐼 = =
∆𝑡 ∆𝑡 ∆𝑡

This can be written in a simpler form as follows:

∆𝐿
∑𝝉 =
∆𝑡

You can manipulate this further by multiplying both sides of the equation
by the change in time.

(∑ 𝜏) ∆𝑡 = ∆𝐿

This equation is the rotational analogue of the impulse-momentum

theorem.
When the net external torque acting on the system is zero, you see that

∆𝐿
∑𝜏 = =0
∆𝑡

26
 This means that the change in the angular momentum of the system is
zero; that is, angular momentum is conserved.

𝐼0𝜔0 = 𝐼𝜔

This is the law of the conservation of angular momentum and can be

stated as follows:

“The total angular momentum of a rotating object is constant when the net
external torque acting on it is zero”.

Observe the conservation of angular

momentum during the spin of a skater on
ice shown in the figure on the right side. The
skater has a slower speed (small ω) when
her arms are stretched away from the body
(large I). When she brings her arms close to
her body (small I), she spins faster (large ω).

Example:
A figure skater spins on an icy surface.
Her moment of inertia is 3. kg∙m2 when her
arms are stretched away from her and
drops to 2.2 kg∙m2 when her arms are close
to her chest. If she makes 3 revolutions per Retrieved from DIWA Learning Systems,
second (rps) when her arms are stretched, Inc.

how many revolutions per second will she Figure 11. A skater spins faster when
make when she puts her arms to her chest? she brings her arms close to her body.

Solution:
Her angular speed when her arms are stretched away from her is

𝑟𝑒𝑣 𝑟𝑒𝑣 2𝜋 𝑟𝑎𝑑 𝑟𝑎𝑑

3 =3 ( )=6
𝜋
𝑠 𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑣 𝑠

When she puts her arms close to her chest, her angular momentum is
conserved. In this scenario, net torque is zero.

𝐼0𝜔0 = 𝐼𝜔

Solving for final angular speed gives

𝐼0𝜔0 (3.0 kg · 𝑚2)(6𝜋 𝑟𝑎𝑑 / 𝑠)

𝜔= = = 25.7 𝑟𝑎𝑑/𝑠
𝐼 2.2 kg · 𝑚2

27
Converting this to the number of revolutions per second gives

𝑟𝑎𝑑 𝑟𝑎𝑑 1 𝑟𝑒𝑣 𝑟𝑒𝑣

25.7 = 25.7 ( )=4
𝑠 𝑠 2 𝜋 𝑟𝑎𝑑 𝑠

Therefore, she makes 4 revolutions per second when she brings her arms close
to her chest.

Performance Task:

Directions: Read and understand the given situation below. After which,
do what is ask. Write your report in short bond paper.

You are a member of an

acrobatic team who will present a
performance in the new theme
park to be called Physics Land.
Your new performance will
showcase your balancing act
involving a long stick with varying
masses at the stick’s ends; this will
be done while you are walking on
a rope. To determine the correct
point where you should hold the Retrieved from DIWA Learning Systems, Inc.
stick, your trainer asked you to

conduct an activity that will measure the location of this point where you will
balance the hanging masses (whose values will be given by the trainer
depending on the availability of materials) as shown in the figure here.

Your task is to submit a report sheet explaining the methods you have
used and the complete analysis of your results. Your trainer will rate your report
sheet based on the accuracy of results.

III. WHAT I HAVE LEARNED

EVALUATION/POST TEST:

I. MULTIPLE CHOICE: Encircle the letter of the correct answer. Show your
solution for items that involve problem solving. Write your answers on your
notebook/Answer Sheet.
1. A uniform rod of mass 2 kg and length of 2.0 m is pivoted about an axis
perpendicular to the rod and 50 cm from its left end. Find the rotational
inertia about this axis.
a. 2.17 kg·m2 b. 2.57 kg·m2 c. 1.17 kg·m2 d. 0.67 kg·m2
2. Which has a greater moment of inertia?
a. long fat leg b. long thin leg c. short fat leg d. short thin leg
28
3. In considering the moment of inertia of a body, it is convenient to assume as
if all its mass were concentrated at a single point from the center of rotation.
This distance is called .
a. center of mass c. lever arm
b. center of gravity d. radius of gyration
4. What is the rotational analog of mass in linear motion?
a. angular speed c. moment of inertia
b. angular momentum d. torque
5. What happens when a female gymnast moves from an extended position to
a tucked position?
a. She increases her rotational inertia.
b. She decreases her rotational inertia.
c. Neither A nor B.
d. Cannot be determined.
6. Which of the forces pictured as acting upon the
rod will produce a torque about an axis
perpendicular to the plane of the diagram at
the left end of the rod?
a. F1 b. F2 c. Both d. Neither

7. The two forces in the diagram have the same

magnitude. Which force will produce the greater
torque on the wheel?
a. F1 b. F2 c. Both d. Neither

8. A 50-N force is applied at the end of the wrench

handle that is 24-cm long. The force is applied in a
direction perpendicular to the handle as shown.
What is the torque applied to the nut by the
wrench?
a. 6 N· m c. 26 N· m
b. b. 12 N· m d. 120 N· m
9. Refer to item #8,
What would the torque be if the force were applied half-way up the
handle instead of at the end?
a. 6 N· m c. 26 N· m
b. 12 N· m d. 120 N· m
10. The unit of torque is .
a. N b. Pa c. N/m d. N· m
11. Which of the following is NOT a condition for an object to be in static
equilibrium?
a. The object is not moving.
b. It is in translational equilibrium.
c. It is in rotational equilibrium.
d. The object is at constant velocity.

29
12. In which of the following items is the center of gravity located at a point
where there is no mass?
a. tennis racket c. boomerang
b. billiard ball d. discus
13. When you carry a heavy load with one arm, why do you tend to hold your
free arm away from your body?
a. to change the mass of your body
b. to change the weight of your body
c. to feel good and look good
d. to shift your body’s center of gravity
14. A resultant force of 4.5 N directed 30˚ north of east is acting on a particle.
What force is needed to bring the particle into a state of equilibrium?
a. 4.5 N, 30˚ north of east
b. 4.5 N, 30˚ north of west
c. 4.5 N, 30˚ south of east
d. 4.5 N, 30˚ south of west
15. What is the angular velocity of a car whose tire radius is 0.300 meter when
the car travels at a linear speed of 15 m/s?
a. 50.4 rad/s b. 50.0 rad/s c. 51 rad/s d. 49.3 rad/s

II. IDENTIFICATION: Determine whether a system is in static equilibrium or not.

Write STATICS if it’s in static equilibrium and write X if not.

30
 REFERENCES

Arevalo, Ryan L. and Mulig, Charity I. General Physics 1. Makati City,

Philippines: DIWA Learning Systems Inc., 2017.

General Physics 1st Edition 2018, Department of Education Authors: Jose Perico
H Esguerra PhD, Rommel G. Bacabac PhD, Jo-Ann M. Cordovilla, Ranziville
Marianne L. Roxas-Villanueva PhD and John Keith V. Magali, Chapter 7,
pp 135-158

Kinematics of Rotational Motion, Retrieved Sep 29, 2020 from

https://course.lumenlearning.com/physics/chapter/10-2-kinematics-of-
rotational-motion Earthquake Hazards, Retrieved Sep 29, 2020 from
https://course.lumenlearning.com/physics/chapter/10--1-angular-
acceleration

Padua, Alicia L., and Ricardo M. Crisostomo. 2003. Practical and Explorational
Physics Modular Approach. Quezon City: Vibal Publishing House, Inc.

Silverio, Angelina A. 2017. General Physics 1. Quezon City: Phoenix Publishing

House, Inc.

University Physics 9th Edition 1996, Addison-Wesley Publishing Company Inc.

Authors: Hugh D. Young and Roger A. Freedman, Chapter 9, pp 268-276

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