Minimum Speed for the Water to not spill

In summary, the water in a spinning bucket does not spill because the bucket is accelerating downwards at the same rate as gravity, keeping the water in place. The formula for this is Total Force = Tension + M*g, with the tension being set to 0.
  • #1
paperdoll
69
0
How is it that the water in a bucket, spun fast enough, does not spill?
The formula at the top would be Total Force = Tension + M*g right?
So would the tension be let as 0? If so, why? I can't understand how the water just simply does not fall out of the bucket :confused:
 
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  • #2
because the bucket is technically accelerating downwards just as fast as gravity is accelerating the water in the bucket (in otherwords, the bucket is keeping up with the water).
 
  • #3
rcgldr said:
because the bucket is technically accelerating downwards just as fast as gravity is accelerating the water in the bucket (in otherwords, the bucket is keeping up with the water).

oooh I get it :) thanks!
 

What is the minimum speed required for water to not spill?

The minimum speed required for water to not spill varies depending on the size and shape of the container. However, in general, a minimum speed of 8 meters per second is needed for water to not spill from a cylindrical container.

What factors affect the minimum speed for water to not spill?

The shape and size of the container, the viscosity of the liquid, and the surface tension of the liquid are the main factors that affect the minimum speed for water to not spill. Other factors such as external forces and the angle of the container also play a role.

Why does water spill at low speeds?

Water spills at low speeds because the force of gravity pulling down on the water is greater than the force of surface tension holding the water in the container. This causes the water to flow over the edge of the container, resulting in a spill.

Can the minimum speed for water to not spill be calculated?

Yes, the minimum speed for water to not spill can be calculated using the equation v = √(rg), where v is the minimum speed, r is the radius of the container, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. However, this equation assumes ideal conditions and may not be accurate for real-world scenarios.

How does the minimum speed for water to not spill change with different liquids?

The minimum speed for water to not spill can vary for different liquids due to differences in viscosity and surface tension. Liquids with higher viscosities and lower surface tension will require a higher minimum speed to prevent spilling, while liquids with lower viscosities and higher surface tension will require a lower minimum speed.

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