FIGURE 11-1
-The rotating systems shown in Figure 11-1 differ only in that the two identical movable masses are positioned a distance r from the axis of rotation (left), or a distance r/2 from the axis of rotation (right). If you release the hanging blocks simultaneously from rest,
A) the block at left lands first.
B) the block at right lands first.
C) both blocks land at the same time.
D) it is impossible to tell which block reaches the bottom first.

Question

FIGURE 11-1 
-The rotating systems shown in Figure 11-1 differ only in that the two identical movable masses are positioned a distance r from the axis of rotation (left), or a distance r/2 from the axis of rotation (right). If you release the hanging blocks simultaneously from rest,
A) the block at left lands first. 
B) the block at right lands first. 
C) both blocks land at the same time. 
D) it is impossible to tell which block reaches the bottom first.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The block at right lands first because the masses are closer to the axis of rotation, reducing the moment of inertia and allowing the system to accelerate faster.

FIGURE 11-1 -The Rotating Systems Shown in Figure 11-1 Differ Only in Differ