Does Centripetal force cause a tangential force?

AI Thread Summary
Centripetal force is responsible for maintaining circular motion, calculated using F = m(v^2/r) or F = m r ω^2. A tangential force only exists if there is tangential acceleration present. When angular speed is constant, no tangential force acts on the mass. Therefore, in uniform circular motion, the absence of tangential acceleration means no tangential force is present. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for analyzing forces in circular motion.
Kalus
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If I have a string with a lump on the end and is being swung in a circle with a continuous angular velocity then I know that:

F= m\frac{v^2}{r}

or using angular velocity,

F= m r \omega^2

But, is there a tangential force acting at the point of mass in its instantaneous direction, and if so, what is it equal to?
 
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Hi Kalus! :smile:

("/tex" not "\tex" :wink:)

There's a tangential force only if there's a tangential acceleration (Newton's second law).

If the angular speed is constant, there isn't.
 
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