Finding Acceleration of a Pendulum Ball at Point A

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a 2 kg ball at point A in a pendulum system with a 3-meter string and angles AOB and AOC of 30 degrees each. The key equations referenced include Newton's second law (F=ma) and the kinematic equation (v = vo + at). The solution involves determining the tangential acceleration at point A, as there is no radial acceleration due to the velocity being zero at that point. Participants emphasize the importance of using trigonometric functions to resolve forces acting on the ball.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometry, specifically sine and cosine functions
  • Familiarity with pendulum motion and acceleration concepts
  • Ability to draw and analyze free body diagrams (FBD)
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate tangential acceleration in pendulum systems
  • Study the principles of free body diagrams in physics
  • Explore the application of trigonometric functions in resolving forces
  • Investigate the dynamics of pendulum motion and its equations of motion
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and pendulum dynamics, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in these topics.

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Homework Statement


A 2 kg ball on a 3 meter long string swings along patch ABC. Angle AOB and AOC equal 30* each. Find the acceleration of the ball at point A.

5uhett.jpg


Homework Equations


Guesses: F=ma, v = vo + at

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried using tan30 = X/2.6 and solving for X to find the horizontal distance. Then, draw a FBD and mg = 20 and the other leg is X, which would allow me to solve for the hypotenuse. But I realized that I cannot add a force with a distance.
 
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Hint:
tangential acceleration in point A,since there is no radial acceleration cause V=0(ar=V^2/R)
Goodluck.
Edit:
hint number 2
find the angle of the component of the force mg in the tangential direction using trigo(height ,Length)
 
Dweirdo said:
Hint:
hint number 2
find the angle of the component of the force mg in the tangential direction using trigo(height ,Length)

hi,

how do i do that, i tried to see if the triangles were similar but no luck
 

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