A solid sphere of radius R is placed on smooth horizontal surface. A horizontal force F is applied at height h from the lowest point. For the maximum acceleration of centre of mass, which is correct ?
- h = R
- h = 2R
- h = 0
- no relation between h and R.
Answer
(4) no relation between h and R.
Solution
The surface is smooth, so the only horizontal external force on the sphere is F.
acm = FM for every value of h
(h only changes the torque about the centre and hence the angular acceleration, not acm.)
The acceleration of the centre of mass does not depend on h; there is no relation between h and R.
Answer: (4)