Demonstration Manual

Rotational Dynamics

DRD02 - Angular Momentum, Rolling Ring and Disc

Objective:

- To illustrate the dependence of angular acceleration on the moment of inertia.

Apparatus:

• Inclined plane
• Wooden disc
• Metal ring

Method:

If the disc and ring are released together at the top of the plane, the disc will arrive at the bottom of the plane first since its moment of inertia (l/2 mr²) is half that of the ring (mr²). The disc and ring are of equal mass.

   Watch a Angular Momentum, Rolling Ring and Disc video demonstration on Youtube

- Video Created at Utah State University by Professor Boyd F. Edwards and assistants.