List of Experiments

1. To determine the supporting forces on both the ends of a simply supported beam

To investigate the principle of balancing of moments

2.

To resolve by experiment, any suitable combination of three static coplanar forces

3. and to compare the results with graphical solution obtained by drawing a triangle of
forces diagram
To study the equilibrium of more than three concurrent co-planar forces and the
4. associated polygon of forces.

To determine the angle of friction and coefficient of static friction between various
5. materials.

6. To determine the coefficient of dynamic friction between various materials.

Prove the equilibrium law of forces in X-axis and Y-axis using the three wire
7. suspension apparatus.

To find the Center of Gravity of Regular and Irregular shapes using plumb line
8.
To determine experimentally the moment of inertia of different disc assemblies
and compare the results with the theoretical values obtained from the mass and
9. the physical dimensions of disc assembly.

To calculate the moment of inertia of the flywheel experimentally and compare

10. it withthe theoretical values.
To determine relationship between angular acceleration of flywheel and torque
11. producing acceleration

12. To study and validate conservation of angular momentum based on observation.

 Lab # 01: Supporting Forces on Simply Supported Beam

Objective:
To determine the supporting forces on both the ends of a simply supported beam

Apparatus:
Beam Apparatus, Steel bar 6 x 20 x 1000 mm, Rider for weight, Suspender for
weights, 3 weights 5N, Dial gauge with holder, Support pillar with clamp.

Theory:
The articulated supports are fitted with force gauges to measure the supporting
forces. This experiment determines the supporting forces for a bar depending on the
point of application (x) of the load. The supporting forces A and B can be determined,
theoretically, by balance of moments.

Balance of moments around support B:

x
 M B  0  F ( L  X )  AL So A  F (1  )
L
Balance of moments about point A:
x
 M A  0  BL  Fx So BF
L

For experimental verification follow the procedure given below:

Procedure:
1. Fasten the articulated supports at a distance of 1000 mm.
2. Push the rider for the weight suspender on to the bar and place the bar on the
supports.
3. Loose the locking screw on the support.
4. Adjust the height of the support using the rotary knob until the bar is horizontal.
5. Re-secure the support using the locking screw.
6. Set the scale on the dynamometer to zero by twisting.
7. Suspend the weight and load the bar.
8. Read the supporting forces on the force gauges and record.

Apparatus Setup:

Observations and Calculations

Measured Supporting Force at a Load F= ____________ N

Distance x Support Support Calc. Calc.

From Force A Force B Force A Force B % Error
 Support A in Newton in Newton in in
in mm (AE) (BE) Newton Newton 𝐀𝐓 − 𝐀𝐄 𝐁𝐓 − 𝐁𝐄
( ) × 𝟏𝟎𝟎 ( ) × 𝟏𝟎𝟎
(AT) (BT) 𝐀𝐓 𝐁𝐓

50
100
200
300
400
500(center)
600

Graph:

1. Plot the support force AE and calculated force in AT in newton against Distance x
from support A in mm on Microsoft excel.
2. Plot the support force BE and calculated force in BT in newton against Distance x
from support A in mm on Microsoft excel.

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.
 Lab # 02: Balancing of Moments

Objective:

To investigate the principle of balancing of moments

Apparatus:

Moment Apparatus, Centrally supported symmetrical lever, Displaceable supported

slides, Set of weights, Weight hangers, Spirit Level.

Theory:

The balance of moments is analogous to the balance of forces. An object is in the

state of rest or uniform movement when the sum of the external moments affecting it
is equal to zero.

∑M = 0 = M1 + M2 + M3 + …..

Using the lever as an example, this means that the moments produced by the forces
affecting the lever must balance themselves with respect to a reference point.

∑M = 0 = F1x1 + F2x2 + F3x3 + ….

The lever arm xi must be counted positively from the reference point in one co-
ordinate direction. The left end of the lever was selected as the reference point in the
illustration. Any other point is also possible.

For the special situation that only two forces affect opposite ends of the lever, it is
possible to reformulate the balance of moments with respect to the lever principle.
The reference point then becomes the actual fulcrum of the lever. The lever principle
is used to compare two forces.

F1a = F2b

Similarly in case of three forces, (for the figure shown in apparatus setup)
 F1x1 = F2x2 + F3x3 (All the distances i.e., x1, x2, x3 are taken from pivot point)

Apparatus Setup:

Procedure:

1. Place the slide on the selected lever arm and suspend weight hangers with
the selected weight.
2. Set the second slide on the other side of the lever arm and suspend a weight
hanger from it. Add the desired weight.
3. Shift the second slide until the lever is balanced.
4. Read the second lever arm at the slide and compare with the theoretical result.
5. Similarly for balancing three forces, repeat the above experiment by setting
one weight hanger on one side of the lever and hanging two weight hangers
on the other side. In this situation, the system will follow the following equation.

F1x1 = F2x2 + F3x3

Observations and Calculations:

For two forces:

Load Load Dist. Dist . F1x1

Sr. F2x2 Difference
Applied Applied
No. x1 x2 (N-
(N-mm) F1x1-F2x2
F1 (N) F2 (N) (mm) (mm) mm)

4
 5

For three forces:

Load Load Load Dist. Dist. Dist. F1x1 F2x2 F3x3 Difference
Sr. Applie Applie Applie
x1 x2 x3 (N- (N- (N- F1x1-
No. dF1 (N) dF2 (N) dF3 (N)
(mm) (mm) (mm) mm) mm) mm) (F2x2+F3x3)

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.
 Lab # 03: Law of Triangle for Concurrent-Coplanar Forces

Objectives:

To resolve by experiment, any suitable combination of three static coplanar forces

and to compare the results with graphical solution obtained by drawing a triangle of
forces diagram.

Apparatus:

Funicular Polygon and Forces Apparatus, Circular steel plate, 360° protractor, Steel
peg, Five pulleys, Clamps, Weight hangers

Theory:

The principle of equilibrium of a set of static forces is very useful when considering
design of engineering items. In its simplest form it can be stated that if three forces acting
on a body in a single plane are in equilibrium, then their line of action must meet at a point.
This leads on to the fact that the graphical representation of these forces will be a triangle.

For more than three co-planar forces in equilibrium the force diagram becomes a
polygon and their line of action do not have to be concurrent. This arises because the
resultant of any pair of the forces can have an equal and opposite equilibrant due to another
pair of forces at a distance from the former pair.

When a set of forces in random directions in a plane act on a body and are in
equilibrium, it is often convenient to use a graphical solution with the forces to a suitable
scale.

Apparatus Setup:

Procedure:

Set up three pulley brackets, cords and hangers in any suitable arrangement. Let OP
coincide with the zero position of the protractor. Place loads at P and Q. Add a load
at R and adjust the load and the disposition of OR until a condition of equilibrium is
achieved. It may be helpful to make small changes to the loads at P and Q. Success
will be apparent when the ring floats centrally on the center peg while the apparatus
 is gently tapped to minimize pulley function. Record the loads (including the hangers)
and their angular directions.

Repeat the above procedure using five co-planar forces.

For each set of results make a graphical presentation and from this construct the
polygon of forces working clockwise. If the force vectors do not produce a closed
force diagram, then there is an experimental error of directions and magnitudes.

Observations and Calculations:

Three co-planar forces in equilibrium:

Sr. Line of Action Direction (°) Load (N)

No.

1. OP

2. OQ

3. OR

Graphical Presentation:

P
b c

A B

C a

Q
 Lab # 04: Law of Polygon for Concurrent-Coplanar Forces

Objectives:

To study the equilibrium of more than three concurrent co-planar forces and the
associated polygon of forces.

Five co-planar forces in equilibrium:

Sr. Line of Action Direction (°) Load (N)

No.

1. OP

2. OQ

3. OR

4. OS

5. OT

Graphical Presentation: c

Q b

T
 R

a
e

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 05: Inclined Plane and Static Friction

Objective:
To determine the angle of friction and coefficient of static friction between various
materials.
Apparatus:
i. Inclined plane (Resopal)
ii. Sliders (Brass, Steel, Aluminum, Polypropylene)
iii. Thread
iv. Weights with weight hanger
Procedure:
i. Consider the system in which, string is mass less and pulley is frictionless,
ii. Mass of block on the Inclined plane = m1
iii. Hanging mass = m2
 iv. Angle of the inclined plane = θ
v. Normal force for m1 = FN
vi. Tension in the string for m1 = T1
vii. Tension in the string for m2 = T2
viii. Seeing that we considered string is mass less and pulley is frictionless, then T1 = T2
=T
ix. Acceleration for block with mass m1 = a1
x. Acceleration for mass m2 = a2
xi. As we considered string is mass less and pulley is frictionless, then a1 = a2 = a
xii. Force of static friction = fs
xiii. Force of kinetic friction = fk
xiv. Gravitational force on m1 = m1g = W1
xv. Gravitational force on m2 = m2g = W2

Material
Mass (kg) Weight (N)
Combination

Load Hanger 0.1 Kg 1N

Aluminum/Steel/
1 Kg 10 N
Brass/Polypropylene

Data and Analysis:

In this section, we will discuss all the measurements and the calculations we took and did.

Part (a): To Find The Coefficient of Static Friction:

Method 1:

Theory:

𝜮𝑭𝒚 = 𝒎𝒂𝒚

+𝐹𝑁 − 𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑚(0)

𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 (1)

𝜮𝑭𝒙 = 𝒎𝒂𝒙

At the verge of motion, we can write,

+𝑓𝑠 − 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 𝑚(0)

𝑓𝑠 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃

𝑓𝑠 = 𝜇𝑠 𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃

𝜇𝑠 𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 (2)

Substitute the value of FN from equation (1) in (2)

𝜇𝑠 𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃

𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
𝜇𝑠 = = = 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃
𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃

𝜇𝑠 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃

Procedure:

1. Place the inclined plane in the balanced

horizontal condition.
2. Place the block on the inclined plane
3. Note the position of block
4. Tilt the plane by increasing the angle of the
block
5. When the block starts to moves, fix the
position of inclined plane
6. Measure the angle of the inclined plane by
using protractor
7. Note the horizontal and vertical
displacements
8. Draw the table and calculate the angle and coefficient of friction.

Results:

Sr. # Material Combination 𝜽𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝝁𝒔 = 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝜽

1.

2.
 3.

4.

Method 2:

Theory:

𝑇1=𝑇2=𝑇

For m1:

𝜮𝑭𝒚 = 𝒎𝟏 𝒂𝒚

+𝐹𝑁 − 𝑚1 𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑚1 (0)

𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚1 𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 (1)

𝜮𝑭𝒙 = 𝒎𝒂𝒙

At the verge of motion, we can write,

−𝑓𝑠 + 𝑇 − 𝑚1 𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 𝑚1 (0)

−𝜇𝑠 𝐹𝑁 + 𝑇 − 𝑚1 𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 0

Substitute the value of FN from equation (1)

−𝜇𝑠 𝑚1 𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 + 𝑇 − 𝑚1 𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 0 (2)

For m2:

𝜮𝑭𝒚 = 𝒎𝒂𝒚

+𝑇 − 𝑚2 𝑔 = 𝑚2 (0) = 0

𝑇 = 𝑚2 𝑔 (3)

Now

Substitute the value of T from (3) in equation (2)

−𝜇𝑠 𝑚1 𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 + 𝑚2 𝑔 − 𝑚1 𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 0

𝑚2 − 𝑚1 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
𝜇𝑠 =
𝑚1 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃

Procedure:

1. Place the inclined plane in the balanced condition

2. Fix a certain angle
3. Note the angle used
4. Measure the mass of m1
5. Attach the block with thread
 6. Place the block on the inclined plane at a known position, and pass the string over
the pulley so that the hanger should be in hanging position
7. Note the position of block and then add a little mass to hanger
8. Note the mass m2 which you added in the hanger, the fixed angle, and μs (which you
have calculated earlier)
9. For the fix angle of the inclined plane, add mass in hanger in small increments, and
note the readings
10. Keep adding the mass until the block moves
11. Calculate the μs by using the table.

Results:

𝑚2 − 𝑚1 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
𝜇𝑠 =
𝑚1 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃

Material Combination: _________________________________

Sr. # 𝒎𝟏 𝒎𝟐 𝜽 𝝁𝒔

1.

2.

3.

4.

Average
 Lab # 06: Inclined Plane and Dynamic Friction

Objective:
To determine the coefficient of dynamic friction between various materials.

Apparatus:
i. Inclined plane
ii. Sliders (Brass, Steel, Aluminum, Nylon)
iii. Thread
iv. Weights with weight hanger

Method 1:

Theory:

𝜮𝑭𝒚 = 𝒎𝒂𝒚

+𝐹𝑁 − 𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑚(0)

𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 (1)

𝜮𝑭𝒙 = 𝒎𝒂𝒙
Just as the block stops, we can write,

+𝑓𝑘 − 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 = 𝑚(0)

𝑓𝑘 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃

𝑓𝑘 = 𝜇𝑘 𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃

𝜇𝑘 𝐹𝑁 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 (2)

Substitute the value of FN from

equation (1) in (2)

𝜇𝑘 𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 = 𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃

𝑚𝑔𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
𝜇𝑘 = = = 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃
𝑚𝑔𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃

𝜇𝑘 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃
Procedure:

1. Place the inclined plane and block at

an angle greater than the angle that
was in the static case
2. Tilt the plane by decreasing the angle
3. When the block stops to moves, fix
the position of inclined plane
4. Note the angle of inclined plane and
block
5. Note the horizontal and vertical
displacements for the block
6. Measure the angle of the inclined
plane by using protractor
7. Draw the table and calculate the angle and coefficient of friction.

Results:

Sr. # Material Combination 𝜽𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 𝝁𝒌 = 𝒕𝒂𝒏𝜽𝒌

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:
Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 07: Three wire suspension apparatus

Objectives:

Prove the equilibrium law of forces in X-axis and Y-axis using the three wire
suspension apparatus.

Apparatus:

• Three wire suspension apparatus

• Loads with hanger

Theory:

Equilibrium is most important part of engineering. The body is said to be in equilibrium if

the resultant of all forces acting on it is zero.

Equilibrium of three wire suspension is an experiment to prove equilibrium of forces law.

Three wires are at 60∘ , 90∘ and 45∘ angle.
So, Equation in three wire suspension case is as given,
For 𝑥-component we have,

∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0 = −𝐹1 cos 60∘ + 𝐹2 cos 90∘ + 𝐹3 cos 45∘

∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0 = −𝐹1 cos 60∘ + 0 + 𝐹3 cos 45∘

Hence,

∑ 𝐹𝑥 = 0 = −𝐹1 cos 60∘ + 𝐹3 cos 45∘

For 𝑦-component we have,

∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0 = −𝐹 + 𝐹r sin 60∘ + 𝐹2 sin 90∘ + 𝐹3 sin 45∘

Hence,

∑ 𝐹𝑦 = 0 = −𝐹 + 𝐹1 sin 60∘ + 𝐹2 + 𝐹3 sin 45∘

So, we can check equilibrium Law by putting values in final equations.

Apparatus Setup:
Procedure:

 First of all make sure that all the parts of equipment are properly secured.
 Start the experiment first by hanging load on the disk, vertically downward.
 Balance each wire suspension to make the central hole of disk in front of pointer pin
behind it.
 Now note down reading for each wire.
Observations and Calculations:

Sr.No Load, F F1 F2 F3

N N N N

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:
Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 08: Center of Gravity

Objective:
To find the Center of Gravity of Regular and Irregular shapes using plumb line.

Apparatus:
Center of Mass Apparatus, Acrylic shapes (Semicircle, trapezium, circle, triangle) and plumb
bob.

Theory:
Locating the centre of gravity of an object is very important in our daily lives. The earth
pulls down on each particle of an object with a gravitational force that we call weight.
Although individual particles throughout an object all contribute weight in this way, the net
effect is as if the total weight of the object were concentrated in a single point – the
object's centre of gravity.
In general, determining the centre of gravity (cg) is a complicated procedure because the
mass (and weight) may not be uniformly distributed throughout the object. The general
case requires the use of calculus. If the mass is uniformly distributed, the problem is
greatly simplified. If the object has a line (or plane) of symmetry, the cg lies on the line of
symmetry. For a solid block of uniform material, the centre of gravity is simply at the
average location of the physical dimensions.

Center of Gravity of some Regular Shapes:

 Circle:
The center of gravity (G) of a circle lies at the center of circle (at the midpoint).
The radius of a circle is measure of its center of gravity.

G=r
r = 74.5 mm
G = 74.5mm

 Trapezium:
The center of gravity of a trapezium with parallel sides ‘a’ and ‘b’ lies at a
distance of
𝐛 + 𝟐𝐚
𝑮= 𝒙𝒉
𝟑(𝒂 + 𝒃)
b = 150mm
a = 100mm
h = 150mm
G = 70mm
  Triangle:
The center of gravity G of a triangle lies at a point where the three
medians of the triangle intersect.
𝒉
𝑮=
𝟑
h = 150mm
G = 50mm

 Semi Circle:
The center of gravity G of a semi circle lies at a distance 4r/3π from its
base measured along the vertical radius.
𝟒𝒓
𝑮=
𝟑𝝅

R = 74.5mm
G = 31.62mm

Procedure:
1. You have received different shapes of materials. The shapes of regular object, irregular
object and letter were cut out from the acrylic pieces.
2. Small holes at non-collinear points were punched on each sample.
3. The sample need to be suspended on the board supplied with the apparatus at the
suspending pin at the top centre of the body
4. The sample should hang loosely from the support and it should not touch any surface.
5. A plumb bob was suspended from the support with the cord extending down in front of
the main body and suspending sample.
6. A line need to be drawn on the sample along the path of the cord.
7. The sample has to be removed and suspended again through another hole. The line
has to be drawn again.
8. The intersection of the two lines was marked as C (the centre of gravity).
9. Repeat the above procedure for the other shapes to get the centre of gravity.

Apparatus Setup:

Observations and Calculations:

Sr Centre of gravity
Shape
No. Theoretical Experimental
1. Circle
2. Trapezium
3. Triangle
4. Semicircle

Graph:

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.
4.

5.

Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 9: Rolling Disc on Inclined Plane

Objective:

To determine experimentally the moment of inertia of different disc assemblies and

compare the results with the theoretical values obtained from the mass and the
physical dimensions of disc assembly.

Apparatus:

Inclined Plane, Height adjuster, Adjustable foot, Scale for measurement, Rolling disc,
Angle indicator.

Theory:

A disc with mass 𝑚 and radius𝑅, rolls from rest at top position and takes time 𝑡(𝑠), to
reach bottom position.
Let the linear velocity of the disc centre at the bottom position = 𝑣( m/s)
Then, the angular velocity of the disc at this position = 𝜔(rad/sec) = v/r(rad/sec)
Average linear velocity = 1/2v(m/s) = L/t(m/s)
Where L is the linear distance travelled

2×𝐿
𝑣=
𝑡

From conservation of energy,

 1 1
mgh = ( 𝑚𝑣 2 + I𝜔2 )
2 2
1 2 1
I𝜔 = mgh − mv 2
2 2
1 2 1
I𝜔 = m (gh − v 2 ) joule
2 2

Potential energy (at highest position) = Kinetic energy (at lowest position)
Therefore, moment of inertia of disc,

2𝑚 1
𝐼= 2
(𝑔ℎ − 𝑣 2 ) kgm2
𝜔 2
𝑚
𝐼 = 2 (2𝑔ℎ − 𝑣 2 )
𝜔

mr 2
𝐼= (2gh − v 2 )
v2
2gh
𝐼 = mr 2 ( 2 − 1)
v
2
2ght
𝐼 = mr 2 ( − 1)
4 L2
ght
𝐼 = mr 2 ( 2 − 1) kgmk 2
2L

Where
m : Mass of disc assembly
r: Radius of spindle

Volume of dise:

VD = 𝜋R2 (𝑙1 )

Volume of the spindle:

𝑉𝑠 = 𝜋𝑟 2 (𝐼2 + 𝐼3 )

Theoretically value of ' 𝐼 ' can be calculated from the mass and physical dimensions of
disc assembly; determine the volume of dise VD and the volume of the spindle Vs , which
may be considered as a single cylinder.
Mass of the dise MD:

𝑉𝐷
𝑀D = 𝑚 × (𝐾𝑔)
𝑉D + 𝑉𝑠

Mass of the spindle Ms:

𝑉S
𝑀S = 𝑚 × (𝐾𝑔)
𝑉D + 𝑉𝑠

Theoretical moment of inertia of disc ID,

𝑅2
𝐼𝐷 = 𝑀𝐷 × (Kgm2 )
2

Theoretical moment of inertia of disc Is,

r2
Is = Ms × (Kgm2 )
2

Thus, theoretical total moment of inertia of the disc assembly,

I = ID + Is

Large Disc:

Theoretical Moment of Inertia:

VD = 𝜋 × R2 × I1
𝑉𝐷 = 𝜋 × (50 × 10−3 )2 × (10 × 103 )
𝑉𝐷 = 7.854 × 10−5 m3
𝑉𝑠 = 𝜋 × 𝑟 2 × (𝑙2 + 𝑙3 )
VS = 𝜋 × (5 × 103 )2 × (45 × 10−3 + 45 × 103 )
𝑉𝑆 = 7.068 × 10−6 m3
VD
MD = m × (kg)
VD + Vs
−3
(7.854 × 10−5 )
MD = (658 × 10 ) × (kg)
(7.854 × 10−5 ) + (7.068 × 106 )
MD = 0.6036( kg)
Vs
Ms = m × (kg)
Vp + Vs
(7.068 × 106 )
MS = (658 × 10−3 ) × (kg)
(7.854 × 105 ) + (7.068 × 10−6 )
MS = 0.054( kg)
R2
ID = MD × (kgm2 )
2
(50 × 10−3 )2
𝐼𝐷 = 0.6036 × (kgm2 )
2
 ID = 7.545 × 10−4 (kgm2 )
r2
I s = Ms × (kgm2 )
2
(5 × 10−1 )2
IS = 0.054 × (kgm2 )
2
IS = 6.75 × 10−7 (kgm2 )

I = IS + ID

I = 6.75 × 10−7 + 7.545 × 10−4

I = 7.55 × 10−4 (kgm2 )

Experimentally Moment of Inertia:

g × h × t2
I = mr 2 × ( − 1) (kgm2 )
2 L2
r : spindle radius = 5 mm
m : mass of disc = 658 g = 0.658 kg
g: gravitational acceleration = 9.81 m/s2
t: time taken =
L: length of bar (distance covered by the disc) = 1 m.

Technical Specification:
Large Disc:

𝑙1 = 10 mm
𝑙2 = 45 mm
𝑙3 = 45 mm
m = 658 g

Disc diameter = DD = 100 mm

Spindle diameter Ds = 10 mm
Small Disc:

𝑙1 = 10 mm
𝑙2 = 45 mm
𝑙3 = 45 mm
m = 380 g

Disc diameter = DD = 70 mm
Spindle diameter = DS = 10 mm

Procedure:

1 Refer to the technical data for physical dimensions and weights of discs.
2 Place the inclined plane apparatus on a level surface and ensure that the top
surfaces of the two rails are at the same level. Wipe off any grease and dirt, which
may be on the tops of rails.
 3 Set one end of the two flanking rails of apparatus at a level above that of the other
end.
4 Set a distance of L(m) along the length of the plane and at height h = 100 mm
between the extremities of the distance traversed by the centre of the disc.
5 Allow the spindle of the small disc assembly to rest on the two flanking rails and
release it so that it starts rolling unaided down the incline, ensuring that the dise not
rub against the rails during its motion.
6 Note time t (sec) taken for the disc to traverse the distance L(m).
7 Carry out the procedures three times to get average time taken.
8 Repeat procedure for the other disc.
Observation and Calculations:

Large Disc Small Disc

Mass of disc, D(mm)

Thickness of disc, 𝑙1 (𝑚𝑚)

Diameter of spindle, d (mm)

Length of spindle, 𝑙2 + 𝑙3 (mm)

Mass of disc, m (kg)

Time, t(sec) Large Disc Small Disc

t1

t2

t3

Average, t=t/3

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 10: Mass Moment of Inertia of Flywheel

Objective:
To calculate the moment of inertia of the flywheel experimentally and compare it
withthe theoretical values.

Apparatus:
1. Flywheel
2. Axle
3. Hanger for load

Introduction:
A flywheel is a rotating mechanical device that is used to store rotational energy.
Flywheels have a significant moment of inertia, and thus resist changes in rotational
speed. The amount of energy stored in a flywheel is proportional to the square of its
rotational speed. Energy is transferred to a flywheel by applying torque to it, thereby
increasing its rotational speed, and hence its stored energy. Conversely, a flywheel
releases stored energy by applying torque to a mechanical load, thereby decreasing
its rotational speed.

Theory:
Kinetic energy:
It is the energy possessed by a body by virtue of its motion.
If body under goes translation:
mv2
K.E =
2
If body undergoes rotation:
I ω2

K.E =
Potential energy: 2
 It is the energy possessed by a body by virtue of its position. In mechanics, PE due to
gravity (weight) and elastic spring is important.

Law of conservation of energy:

In mechanics, it is sometimes known as Law of conservation of mechanical energy. It
states that during motion, sum of kinetic and potential energies of body remains
constant. For these to occur, kinetic energy must be transformed to potential energy
& vice versa.

Derivation of formula for (I):

Moment of inertia I represents measure of resistance of a body to angular acceleration.
It is defined as the integral of second moment about an axis, of mass dm.

I = ∫ 𝑟2dm
Phase I:
The mass m falls through a vertical height of h and losses its potential energy mgh.
This PE is converted into:

𝑚𝑣 2
𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐾. 𝐸 =
2
𝐼𝑤 2
𝑅𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝐾. 𝐸 =
2
𝐹𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠 = 𝑛1 𝐹

𝑚𝑣 2 𝐼𝑤 2
𝑚𝑔ℎ = + + 𝑛1 𝐹 … … … … … … … … … … … … . (1)
2 2
Phase II:

𝑚𝑣 2
When falling mass is detached, the fly wheel is having rotational KE = .This
2
energy is lost in friction. If no. of revolution of fly wheel after detachment of mass is
n2, this frictional loss is n2F. This means:
𝐼𝑤 2
= 𝑛2 𝐹 … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … . . (2)
2
𝐼𝑤 2
= 𝐹 … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … (3)
2𝑛2

(1) And (3) gives

𝑚𝑣 2 𝐼𝑤 2 𝐼𝑤 2
𝑚𝑔ℎ = + + 𝑛1
2 2 2𝑛2

𝑚𝑣 2 𝐼𝑤 2 𝐼𝑤 2
𝑚𝑔ℎ − + + 𝑛1
2 2 2𝑛2
Solving we get

2𝑛2 𝑚𝑣 2
𝐼= (𝑚𝑔ℎ − ) … … … … … … … . . (4)
𝑤 2 (𝑛1 𝑛2 ) 2
Where

n1: Number of revolutions of flywheel before detachment

n2: Number of revolutions of flywheel after detachment
m: Falling mass
g: Gravitational acceleration
h: Displacement of falling mass till detachment (height of base of mass
hanger from reference)
v: Velocity
ω: Angular velocityr:
Radius of axle
t: time for detachment
v = r ω ....................................... (5)
ω = ω 0+ at
ω = at (since ω 0= 0). ............. (6)
a = rα. .......................................... (7)
at2
s = v0 t +

2
s = h = (2πr)n1 ,v0 =0
at2
2πrn1 =

2
4πrn1
a = ..................................... (8)
t2

(7) and (8) gives:

4πrn1
= rα .................................... (9)
t2
(6) and (9) gives:

4πn1
ω= t

t2
4πn1

ω = .......................................(10)
(5) and (10) gives: t

4πrn1
v = ...................................... (11)

t
Experimentally moment of inertia of flywheel can be calculated by using

Equation 4, 10 and 11 respectively. Theoretically it is found by;

MR2

I=
2
M: Mass of flywheel

R: Radius of flywheel

Procedure:
1. Record the radius of axle and flywheel.
2. Wind a cord around the axle.
3. Attach a hanger at the end of cord.
4. Mark a short horizontal line on the outer surface of flywheel to make it
reference for counting of revolutions.
5. Place some mass on the hanger and record mass “m” kg (inclusive of mass of
hanger).
6. Note down the height “h” of the mass from the base of hanger to the point
where it got detached. (usually floor is taken as reference)
7. Release the mass and start the stop watch at that instant.
8. Stop the stopwatch at the instant when falling mass got detached from the
flywheel.
9. Note the number of revolutions before detachment and after detachment till
the flywheel comes to rest.

Observations:

Number of Number of
Displacement revolutions revolutions
Time for Moment
Falling of falling mass of flywheel of flywheel
Sr. detachment of
mass m till detachment before after
No. t inertia I
(kg) h
(sec) detachment detachment (Kg-m2)
(m)
n1 n2
Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 11: Mass Moment of Inertia of Flywheel

Objective:
• To determine relationship between angular acceleration of flywheel and torque
producing acceleration
• Experiment to validate second law motion and to show how flywheels store energy

Apparatus:
1. Flywheel
2. Axle
3. Hanger for load

Introduction:
A flywheel is a rotating mechanical device that is used to store rotational energy.
Flywheels have an inertia called the moment of inertia and thus resist changes in
rotational speed. The amount of energy stored in a flywheel is proportional to the square
of its rotational speed. Energy is transferred to a flywheel by the application of a torque to
it, thereby increasing its rotational speed, and hence its stored energy. Conversely, a
flywheel releases stored energy by applying torque to a mechanical load, thereby
decreasing the flywheel's rotational speed.

Theory:
In the given diagram
F = Tension in cord (Driving force) generated from falling weight (N)
M = mass of hanger (kg) + applied masses (kg)Mg = Weight of hanger applied weights
(N)
a = acceleration of falling weight (m/s2)
𝑟 = Effective radius of flywheel boss and half cord diameter
𝜔 = Angular velocity (rad/s)
𝛼 = Angular acceleration (rad/s2)
Consider the falling mass
Net Force = 𝑚𝑔 − 𝐹
Hence 𝑚𝑎 = 𝑚𝑔 − 𝐹
F = m(g − a)
Provided that ' a ' is much smaller than ' g '
F = mg For the wheel
Angular displacement Θ = 2𝜋N [rad] Where N = number of revolutions

A verage angular velocity −1/2(0 + N ) [rad/s] (Zero is stated because the flywheel starts
from rest) elN = Angular velocity, Time for N revolutions = t(sec) Angular displacement
 𝜃 = 1/4 × 𝑎 N × 𝑡,
𝜔N = a × t
1
𝛩 = 𝛼 𝑡2
2
𝑎 = 4𝜋N/𝑡 2

According to second law of motion

Torque producing acceleration = 𝐹 × 𝑟
Most machinery has parts which revolve on their longitudinal axis: for example, Wheels,
shafts, electric motors, centrifugal pumps, etc. This rotary motion is subject to the same
basic laws as linear motion, but all the terms have to be transformed to comply with
conditions of rotation.
For example, the second law of motion changes as follows. - Force = Mass 𝑥 Acceleration
(2 nd Law of Motion)
Force × Radius = Rotational Mass × Rotational Acceleration Couple, C = Moment of
Inertia, I × Angalar Acceleration
In symbols F-ma 𝐶 = I × 𝛼
The couple C is also referred to as the torque, being the tuming force exerted. The
application of this altemative form of the second law is wide spread and most important in
understanding the performance of rotating machinery-
Where it is necessary to start rotating machinery quickly the moment of inertia must be as
small as possible to permit fast acceleration with the maximum value of torque, On the
other hand, when a reciprocating engine i.e. required to run at a uniform speed regard less
of the fluctuation in driving force as each cylinder delivers power it is common practice to
increase the overall moment of inertia by adding a flywbeel fo the engine shaft. A further
use of a flywhed is to store rotational energy which is recoverable as it slows down. There
by making a large couple available for a short period
The expcriments that follow show how a flywbeel complies with the second law of motion,
and how it acts as a store of energy.

Procedure:
1. Connect cord to shaft of flywheel at one end
2. Wind cord a definite number steps (e.g. 10) from where cord falls off peg
• This will ensure that driving torque acts for set number of revolutions
3. Make sure the marking on the disc is at the pointer
4. Add weight hanger to free end of cord
5. Add 0.1 N to the hanger, hold flywheel with one hand and stop watch in
other
6. Release the hanger and start the stop watch (after fixed revolutions,
hanger will fall to the ground)
7. If 0.1 N is not enough to rotate flywheel, add more weights until it rotates
freely
8. Measure time to complete set number of revolutions (e.g. 10)
9. Record the weight applied to the hanger (include the hanger weight) in
table
10. Record the time taken in the table
11. Repeat the above procedure adding load by increment of 0.1 N
12. Repeat experiment until at least six readings have been taken
Observations:

Total
Mass Total
1/t2 No. of Effective
Applied α
Sr. Radius Time, Couple,
[s- Rotations
No. of axle Couple t [s] [rad/s2]
M W 2
] T [N∙m]
N
[kg] [N] T [N∙m]

5
 Graph

1. Plot Angular Acceleration (x-axis) vs. Total Torque (y-axis)

2. Mass (x-axis) Vs 1/t2 (y axis)

Sources of Error:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Conclusion:

Physical Applications:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.
 Lab # 14: Conservation of Angular Momentum Apparatus

Objective:
To study and validate conservation of angular momentum based on observation.

Apparatus:

 Bench mount

 Rotating arm

 Two weights

 Bearings

 Pall cord

Theory
Conservation of linear momentum is based around the following equation: m𝑖 v𝑖 = m𝑓 v𝑓 .
However the equation of angular momentum regards the following:
(𝑟𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠) 𝑋 (𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑟 𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑦)
(I) × (𝜔)

Conservation of momentum becomes:

(𝐼𝑥𝜔)1 = (𝐼𝑥𝜔)2
About point of rotation, which exits with a center of gravity of object and some axis.
Where, I= mass moment of inertia of point mass at distance 𝑅 from rotating axis (kgm2 )
𝐼 = 1/2(𝑚𝑅2 )
Angular velocity (rad/s)
2𝜋N
𝜃= where N is the rpm.
60

Procedure

 Pass cord from hole in cylindrical mass and tie to onc end.

 Pass cord through central mechanism.

 Repeat the procedure to tie the other end of the rod.

 While masses are at extreme ends, give the rod slight rotation.

 When masses are revolving, pull down on cord to move masses inwards

 Observe change in rpm.

Applications

Conclusion