The two rotating systems shown in the figure differ only in that the two identical movable masses are positioned at different distances from the axis of rotation. If you release the hanging blocks simultaneously from rest, and if the ropes do not slip, which block lands first?
A) The block at the left lands first.
B) The block at the right lands first.
C) Both blocks land at the same time.

Question

The two rotating systems shown in the figure differ only in that the two identical movable masses are positioned at different distances from the axis of rotation. If you release the hanging blocks simultaneously from rest, and if the ropes do not slip, which block lands first? 
A) The block at the left lands first. 
B) The block at the right lands first. 
C) Both blocks land at the same time.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The block at the right lands first. The time it takes for a block to reach the ground is dependent on its distance from the axis of rotation. The block at the right has a shorter distance between its center of mass and the axis of rotation, which means it has a shorter radius and will complete each rotation faster than the block at the left. Therefore, it will reach the ground first.

The Two Rotating Systems Shown in the Figure Differ Only