A Student's Guide to Rotational Motion

A compact and accessible guide to the principles of rotational dynamics, supported by step-by examples and exercises.

Effrosyni Seitaridou (Author), Alfred C. K. Farris (Author)

9781009213301, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 3 August 2023

198 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.1 cm, 0.413 kg

Rotational motion is of fundamental importance in physics and engineering, and an essential topic for undergraduates to master. This accessible yet rigorous Student's Guide focuses on the underlying principles of rotational dynamics, providing the reader with an intuitive understanding of the physical concepts, and a firm grasp of the mathematics. Key concepts covered include torque, moment of inertia, angular momentum, work and energy, and the combination of translational and rotational motion. Each chapter presents one important aspect of the topic, with derivations and analysis of the fundamental equations supported by step-by-step examples and exercises demonstrating important applications. Much of the book is focused on scenarios in which point masses and rigid bodies rotate around fixed axes, while more advanced examples of rotational motion, including gyroscopic motion, are introduced in a final chapter.

Preface
1. Rotational kinematics
2. Torque and static equilibrium
3. Rotational dynamics
4. Moment of inertia
5. Angular momentum
6. Work and energy
7. Combining translation and rotation: a first look
8. Garden of delights
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH]