In outer space two space modules are joined together by a massless cable. These

Question

In outer space two space modules are joined together by a massless cable. These probes are rotating about their center of mass, which is at the center of the wire, because the modules are identical (see the figure). In each probe, the cable is connected to a motor, so that the modules can pull each other together. The initial tangential speed of each module is v0 = 17.3 m/s. Then they pull together until the distance between them is reduced by a factor of 3. Determine the final tangential speed, which is vf for each module.

Explanation / Answer

conserving angular momentum

Iw(initial)=Iw(final)

Iv(initial)/r=3Iv(final)/r

v final=3*17.3=51.9 m/s

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