A solid sphere and a hollow sphere of the same mass and radius are released from

Practice Questions

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 translational speed when they reach the ground?

Solid sphere
Hollow sphere
Both will 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 translational 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 into kinetic energy.
Step 3: Recognize that kinetic energy has two parts: translational (movement) and rotational (spinning).
Step 4: The solid sphere has a smaller moment of inertia compared to the hollow sphere, meaning it spins less for the same amount of energy.
Step 5: Since the solid sphere uses more of its energy for translational speed (moving downwards) and less for rotation, it will reach the ground faster.
Step 6: Conclude that the solid sphere will have a greater translational speed when they reach the ground.

Moment of Inertia – The moment of inertia determines how mass is distributed in an object and affects its rotational motion.
Energy Conservation – The total mechanical energy (potential + kinetic) is conserved in the absence of air resistance, and the distribution of energy between translational and rotational forms is key.
Rolling Motion – Understanding how rolling objects convert potential energy into both translational and rotational kinetic energy.

A solid sphere and a hollow sphere of the same mass and radius are released from

Practice Questions

Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions

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