Question

After fixing a flat tire on a bicycle you give the wheel a spin. Its initial angular speed was 5.45 rad/s and it rotated 14.4 revolutions before coming to rest.

1. What was its average angular acceleration?
2. For what length of time did the wheel rotate?

Answer 1

(a) α = -0.16 rad/s²

(b) t = 33.2 s

Step-by-step explanation:

(a)

Applying 3rd equation of motion on the circular motion of the tire:

2αθ = ωf² - ωi²

where,

α = angular acceleration = ?

ωf = final angular velocity = 0 rad/s (tire finally stops)

ωi = initial angular velocity = 5.45 rad/s

θ = Angular Displacement = (14.4 rev)(2π rad/1 rev) = 28.8π rad

Therefore,

2(α)(28.8π rad) = (0 rad/s)² - (5.45 rad/s)²

α = -(29.7 rad²/s²)/(57.6π rad)

α = -0.16 rad/s²

Negative sign shows deceleration

(b)

Now, we apply 1st equation of motion:

ωf = ωi + αt

0 rad/s = 5.45 rad/s + (-0.16 rad/s²)t

t = (5.45 rad/s)/(0.16 rad/s²)

t = 33.2 s