The three pages define and explain the components of the Generalized Inertia Tensor matrix $\mathbf{M}$ for a coupled mass system using generalized coordinates $r$ and $\phi$. The final form of the matrix is diagonal, $\mathbf{M} = \begin{pmatrix} m_1 + m_2 & 0 \\ 0 & m_1 r^2 \end{pmatrix}$, which explicitly shows that the radial and angular motions are inertially uncoupled. Specifically, the radial inertia component $M_{rr}$ is the total mass ($m_1 + m_2$) because both masses move with the radial speed $\dot{r}$, and the angular inertia component $M_{\phi\phi}$ is the moment of inertia ($m_1 r^2$) of mass $m_1$ alone, as only the mass on the horizontal plane contributes to the rotation.

<aside> ❓

  1. What is the component (radial inertia) of the generalized inertia tensor?
  2. What is the component (angular inertia) of the generalized inertia tensor?
  3. What is the final form of the generalized inertia tensor matrix M in generalized coordinates? </aside>