Chapter 10, Problem 32A

Consider the pair of cups taped together as shown. Will this design correct its motion and keep the pair of cups on the track? Predict before you try it and see!

To determine

Whether a pair of cups taped together keep it on the track.

Answer to Problem 32A

No, their tapered design will tend to turn the wheel off the track.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction: Tapered objects do not follow a straight line or circular motion instead they tend to move in a curved fashion.

When the large radius of the cups rides on the track, then there is an increase in the tangential speed. The taper designlooks like a fulcrum. This design when rolls, moves in a curvilinear motion. Thus, when tapers are made to roll on straight parallel lines, then it drops off the track due to its design.

Conclusion: Thus, a pair of cups in tapered shape would move in curvilinear motion and fall off the track.