Which orientation of the rectangular cross-section has better moment of inertia ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The orientation with the longer side parallel to the axis of rotation has better moment of inertia.

Moment of inertia is higher when the mass is distributed further from the axis of rotation.
For a rectangular cross-section, the moment of inertia is higher when the longer side is parallel to the axis of rotation.
This orientation increases the distance of the mass from the axis, leading to a higher moment of inertia.
For example, a rectangular beam standing on its shorter side will have a lower moment of inertia compared to when it is lying flat with the longer side parallel to the axis.

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