How do we compute the moment of inertia matrix of a thin square plate of mass M with sides of size a?

Question

R_scott · Accepted Answer

the moment of inertia is dependent on the axis of rotation the plate has different momenta due to its shape

oobleck · Answer

google moment of inertia and get lots of examples for various shapes.

Ashley · Answer

Hi oobleck, just wanted a clarification on what they've meant here by "moment of inertia matrix". Thanks! I only post a question once I've googled and found something which I don't understand :-)

oobleck · Answer

my google of "moment of inertia matrix" tuned up half a dozen hits on the first page...

Damon · Answer

You do not say about what axis or if around the center of mass. If not at center of mass and about principal axis then much more difficult (like dynamically unbalanced car wheel) Google inertia tensor .