A solid sphere and a hollow sphere of the same mass and radius are released from
Practice Questions
Q1
A solid sphere and a hollow sphere of the same mass and radius are released from rest at the same height. Which one will have a greater linear speed when they reach the ground?
Solid sphere
Hollow sphere
Both have the same speed
Depends on the mass
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
A solid sphere and a hollow sphere of the same mass and radius are released from rest at the same height. Which one will have a greater linear speed when they reach the ground?
Step 1: Understand that both spheres are released from the same height and have the same mass and radius.
Step 2: Know that when they fall, they convert potential energy (due to height) into kinetic energy (motion).
Step 3: Recognize that the solid sphere has a smaller moment of inertia compared to the hollow sphere. Moment of inertia is a measure of how mass is distributed in an object.
Step 4: Realize that a smaller moment of inertia means the solid sphere can rotate more easily and convert more of its potential energy into linear speed (forward motion).
Step 5: Conclude that when both spheres reach the ground, the solid sphere will have a greater linear speed because it can convert more potential energy into translational kinetic energy.
Moment of Inertia – The moment of inertia determines how mass is distributed in an object and affects its rotational motion.
Energy Conservation – The principle that potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the objects fall.
Translational vs Rotational Kinetic Energy – Understanding the difference between translational kinetic energy (linear speed) and rotational kinetic energy (spinning motion).
