Rolling combines translation and rotation; sliding moves without matching rotation.v = 0 m/s · ω = 0 rad/s · no slip

3D Rolling vs Sliding

Inclines, friction, rotation, energy, and shape races

Workspace

Inclined-plane laboratory

Experiment controls

Rolling shape

Ramp angle25°

Static friction0.40

Kinetic friction0.25

Mass2.0 kg

Radius0.30 m

Simulation speed1×

Camera zoom1×

Contact sounds

Visual experiments

Live motion

Rolling speed0.00 m/s

Sliding speed0.00 m/s

Angular speed0.00 rad/s

Contact statePure rolling

Equations

Pure rolling: v = ωR

I = kmR² · a = g sin θ ÷ (1 + k)

K = ½mv² + ½Iω²

The sphere translates and rotates while the block slides without rotating.

Object focus

Tap the roller, block, contact point, force arrow, or energy bars.

Teacher presets

Teacher narration

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Narrator

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Chapters

Learning objectives

Distinguish rolling, sliding, and rolling with slip.
Use v = ωR for pure rolling.
Relate friction to force and torque.
Compare moments of inertia and acceleration.
Track translation, rotation, and thermal energy.

Key relationships

Pure rolling: v − ωR = 0.

Moment of inertia: I = kmR².

Acceleration: a = g sin θ ÷ (1 + k).

Energy: mgh = ½mv² + ½Iω².

Suggested experiments

Reduce static friction until the contact begins to slip.
Race a sphere, cylinder, and hoop.
Increase ramp angle and compare arrival times.
Compare sliding heat with rolling energy.

Questions for exploration

Why can static friction provide torque without losing energy?
Which shape reaches the bottom first?
What does the sign of v − ωR tell you?

Seven-question motion check

Answer all seven questions.

Teacher whiteboard

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