Classical Mechanics (Kibble & Berkshire) · Problem 12.7

The calculus of variations and Hamilton's principle — T.W.B. Kibble, F.H. Berkshire

Physics — Mechanics · lagrangian-mechanics-ball-rolling-on-wedge

Problem

A uniform ball of mass mm rolls down a rough wedge of mass MM and angle α\alpha, which itself can slide on a smooth horizontal table. The whole system undergoes planar motion. How many degrees of freedom has this system? Obtain Lagrange's equations. For the special case in which M=3m/2M = 3m/2, find (i) the acceleration of the wedge, and (ii) the acceleration of the ball relative to the wedge.

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