Introduction to Classical Mechanics · Problem 9.28
Angular momentum, Part II (General L) — Morin
Physics — Mechanics · rolling-straight
Problem
In some situations, such as the rolling-coin setup in Problem 9.23, the velocity of the CM of a rolling object changes direction as time goes by. Consider a uniform sphere that rolls on the ground without slipping (possibly in the nonstandard way described in the solution to Problem 9.27). Is it possible for the CM's velocity to change direction? Justify your answer rigorously.