We present a pedagogical treatment of a circular cylinder moving over a smooth surface with one point of the cylinder making contact with the surface. We derive the equations of motion using Newton’s laws. The simplicity of this approach makes the results easily within reach of undergraduate students. A careful derivation of the equations is presented first, and then we show how easily one could make an error. We illustrate how instructors could use this calculation to teach students how to detect errors and critically examine assumptions, including those that seem beyond question. Circular motion with no slipping is examined and we demonstrate the extent of possible motions for static friction. Some calculations are listed that instructors can assign to students to teach the points made in this paper.
