Question

A record spins at 33 rpm (revolutions per minute), which is an angular velocity of about 3.46 radians per second. What is the approximate linear velocity of a fly that sits on the record, 12 cm from the center

Answer 1

Hi there!

We can use the following equation to relate angular velocity to linear velocity.

$v = \omega r$

v = linear velocity (m/s)

ω = angular velocity (3.46 rad/sec)

r = distance from axis of rotation (.12 m)

Plug in the given values.

$v = (3.46)(.12) = \boxed{.415 \frac{m}{s}}$