The analysis of the rolling wheel has become much simpler. The kinetic energy of the rolling wheel is equal to the rotational kinetic energy
of the wheel about its center of mass plus the kinetic energy of the entire mass moving with the velocity of the center of mass. The force of gravity acts on the center of mass and cannot be responsible for the rotation. It is the frictional force at the bottom of the wheel that creates the rolling. Although most people appear quite familiar with wheels, this chapter presents a few simple puzzles that reveal the subtlety of the motion.
Details
Type Book ChapterPub Date 1/1/2006Stock # PB198X_53