Rotational Dynamics — SI Unit of Mass Moment of Inertia In SI units, the mass moment of inertia has the unit kg·m^2.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: True

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Mass moment of inertia measures an object’s resistance to angular acceleration about an axis. Correct units are essential for dimensional consistency in torque and angular acceleration relationships.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • SI base unit of mass is kilogram (kg) and of length is metre (m).
  • Moment of inertia involves mass multiplied by squared distance from an axis.


Concept / Approach:
The defining expression is I = ∫ r^2 dm for continuous bodies or I = Σ m_i r_i^2 for discrete masses. Thus, the dimension is [mass] * [length]^2, which in SI is kg·m^2.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Start with I = Σ m r^2. Replace m with kg and r with m, giving units kg·m^2. Check against rotational dynamics: τ = I * α has N·m on the left; α is rad/s^2 (dimensionless radians), leaving N·m = (kg·m^2) * (1/s^2), which is consistent since N = kg·m/s^2.


Verification / Alternative check:
For a solid disk, I = (1/2) m R^2; substituting SI units yields kg·m^2, confirming the unit again.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
'False' would imply a different unit, contradicting dimensional analysis and standard definitions in mechanics.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing mass moment of inertia (kg·m^2) with area moment of inertia (m^4) used in beam bending; mixing CGS (g·cm^2) with SI (kg·m^2).


Final Answer:
True.

More Questions from Engineering Mechanics

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion