Centrifugal Force: Tension in String w/ Mass in Horizontal Circle

In summary, the tension in a string with a mass attached during a HORIZONTAL circular movement is due to the centripetal force, which is equal to the centripetal force keeping the mass in orbit. This follows Newton's 3rd law, where a force exerted on an object will result in an equal force exerted back.
  • #1
flo123
8
0
excluding the answer of centrifugal forces, why is there a tension in a piece of string with a mass attached on the end, going in a HORIZONTAL circular movement, when the mass is always accelerating towards the centre anyway??
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The tension force IS the centripetal force.So a centripetal acceleration automatically means a tension in the string.

Daniel.
 
  • #3
is this using Newtons 3rd law, that when a force acts on something, it will then have an equal force exerted back onto it? so the centripetal force keeping the mass in orbit, has an equal force (the tension) to the centripetal force in the string?
 

What is Centrifugal Force?

Centrifugal force is a perceived outward force that acts on an object when it is in a curved or circular path. It is not a true force, but rather a result of inertia and Newton's first law of motion.

How does Centrifugal Force affect objects in a horizontal circle?

When an object is in a horizontal circle, the centrifugal force acts perpendicular to the direction of motion, pulling the object away from the center of the circle. This creates tension in the string or object that is keeping the object in the circle.

What is the relationship between Centrifugal Force and Tension in a string?

The tension in a string is directly related to the magnitude of the centrifugal force acting on an object. As the object's speed or mass increases, the centrifugal force and tension in the string also increase.

Is Centrifugal Force a real force?

No, centrifugal force is not a true force like gravity or friction. It is a perceived force that results from an object's inertia and motion in a curved path.

How can Centrifugal Force be calculated?

Centrifugal force can be calculated using the formula F = mv^2/r, where m is the mass of the object, v is its velocity, and r is the radius of the circle. This formula can also be used to calculate the tension in a string.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
55
Views
514
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
386
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
373
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
626
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
38
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
705
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
45
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
919
Back
Top