A solid sphere of radius R is placed in 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: (2002)
Solution:
Acceleration of the centre of mass is given by $a = frac{F}{m} + frac{tau}{I}R_{text{eff}}$. For a smooth surface with no friction, force torque about centre is $tau = F(h-R)$. Maximizing acceleration depends on applying force at the top point where $h = 2R$ to maximize translational effect without opposing torque constraints, or simply using Newton's second law where $a = F/m$ is independent of $h$ unless specified with rotation, but for rolling/sliding conditions $h=2R$ yields specific torque relations.
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