The objects listed below are placed at the top of a ramp, and roll down to the bottom without slipping. Assuming that there is no air resistance, rank them in order from fastest average rolling speed to slowest.
Basketball
Bowling Ball
Penny
Wedding Ring
Bowling Ball
Penny
Basketball
Wedding Ring
To determine the order of the objects from fastest average rolling speed to slowest, we need to understand the factors that affect the rolling speed of objects. The rolling speed of an object is influenced by the object's mass distribution and the rotational inertia. Objects with a lower rotational inertia and a higher mass distribution around the axis of rotation will typically roll faster.
Now let's analyze each object:
1. Bowling Ball: A bowling ball has a large mass and a distribution of mass concentrated around its central axis. This results in a low rotational inertia, which allows it to roll relatively faster compared to the other objects mentioned.
2. Basketball: A basketball also has a considerable mass, but its mass distribution is less concentrated compared to a bowling ball. The spherical shape of the basketball increases its rotational inertia, making it roll slower than a bowling ball.
3. Wedding Ring: A wedding ring is typically small and has a low mass. Its mass distribution is evenly spread around its axis due to its symmetric shape. The low mass and distribution result in a higher rotational inertia, causing the wedding ring to roll slower than the basketball and the bowling ball.
4. Penny: A penny is the smallest and lightest object among the given options. It has a very low mass, which makes it slower to roll compared to the other objects. Additionally, the majority of the mass is located away from its central axis, increasing its rotational inertia and further reducing its rolling speed.
Therefore, the objects ranked from fastest average rolling speed to slowest are:
1. Bowling Ball
2. Basketball
3. Wedding Ring
4. Penny
Penny
Wedding Ring
Bowling Ball
Basketball
Bowling ball
Penny
Basket Ball
Penny
Penny
Wedding Ring
Basketball
Bowling Ball