College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 8 - Rotational Motion and Equilibrium - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Conceptual Questions - Page 302: 11

Answer

The moment of inertia, otherwise known as the angular mass or rotational inertia, of a rigid body, is a tensor that determines the torque needed for a desired angular acceleration about a rotational axis. It depends on the body's mass distribution and the axis chosen, with larger moments requiring more torque to change the body's rotation. Because of different mass distribution across different axis moment of inertia changes with the axis chosen. Physically it means how much torque required to rotate the body around a given axis.

Work Step by Step

The moment of inertia, otherwise known as the angular mass or rotational inertia, of a rigid body, is a tensor that determines the torque needed for a desired angular acceleration about a rotational axis. It depends on the body's mass distribution and the axis chosen, with larger moments requiring more torque to change the body's rotation. Because of different mass distribution across different axis moment of inertia changes with the axis chosen. Physically it means how much torque required to rotate the body around a given axis.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.