A ball moves a horizontal circle....

In summary, while the force changes the direction of the ball, it does not affect its constant speed. This is because speed is a scalar quantity with no direction, while force is a vector quantity with direction.
  • #1
talknerdy2me
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1

Homework Statement



While a string is attached to a ball and the ball moves in a horizontal circle at a constant speed, does the force change both the direction and speed of the ball? Explain.

Homework Equations


No equations necessary.

The Attempt at a Solution


*I think* the force changes the direction but not the speed since the speed is constant?
 
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  • #2
talknerdy2me said:

Homework Statement



While a string is attached to a ball and the ball moves in a horizontal circle at a constant speed, does the force change both the direction and speed of the ball? Explain.

Homework Equations


No equations necessary.

The Attempt at a Solution


*I think* the force changes the direction but not the speed since the speed is constant?
Correct. Are you familiar with the definitions of scalar speed and vector velocity?
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
Correct. Are you familiar with the definitions of scalar speed and vector velocity?
Yes I am scaler = no direction and vector = with direction.
 
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1. How does a ball move in a horizontal circle?

A ball moves in a horizontal circle due to the combination of two types of motion: linear motion and circular motion. The ball moves in a straight line at a constant speed, while also rotating around a fixed point at the same time. This produces a circular path for the ball to follow.

2. What is the centripetal force in a horizontal circle?

The centripetal force in a horizontal circle is the force that pulls or pushes an object towards the center of the circle. This force is necessary to keep the object moving in a circular path and is directed perpendicular to the object's velocity. In the case of a ball moving in a horizontal circle, the centripetal force is provided by the tension in the string or the force of gravity acting on the object.

3. Does the speed of the ball change in a horizontal circle?

No, the speed of the ball remains constant in a horizontal circle. This is because the centripetal force is always perpendicular to the object's velocity, causing it to change direction but not speed. However, the velocity of the ball does change as it moves around the circle, as it is constantly changing direction.

4. What is the relationship between the radius of the circle and the speed of the ball?

The speed of the ball in a horizontal circle is directly proportional to the radius of the circle. This means that as the radius increases, the speed of the ball also increases. This can be seen in the formula for centripetal force, where the speed is squared and inversely proportional to the radius.

5. Can a ball move in a horizontal circle without a force acting on it?

No, in order for a ball to move in a horizontal circle, there must be a force acting on it. This force is necessary to change the direction of the ball's motion and keep it moving in a circular path. If there is no force acting on the ball, it will continue moving in a straight line at a constant speed.

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