Answer the following questions about energy and friction for bodies that roll without…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Work, Energy and Power · Work, Energy and Power
Problem
Answer the following questions about energy and friction for bodies that roll without slipping. Use clear, concise reasoning supported by appropriate physical principles.
(a) Explain why static friction does no net work on a rigid body that rolls without slipping across a horizontal surface.
(b) A solid cylinder is released from rest at the top of a rough incline and rolls without slipping to the bottom. Describe qualitatively how its translational kinetic energy and rotational kinetic energy change during the descent.
(c) Predict how the mechanical energy and the final speed of the cylinder would differ if the incline were perfectly smooth (i.e., no friction) and justify your prediction.
(d) Discuss why some amount of roughness (and therefore static friction) is necessary for a body to begin rolling from rest on an incline.