PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems · Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems
Problem
Two uniform wheels, X and Y, have identical radii R and roll without slipping on a level track. At a particular instant both wheels have the same angular speed ω, but wheel X has twice the mass and twice the moment of inertia of wheel Y. Which statement about their linear speeds is most accurate?
(a) Wheel X moves faster because its larger mass gives it more kinetic energy.
(b) Wheel X moves slower because more of its kinetic energy is tied up in rotation, leaving less for translation.
(c) Both wheels have the same linear speed because v depends only on R and ω.
(d) Wheel Y moves faster because its smaller moment of inertia allows it to spin more easily.