Calculating Tension when you swing a ball around a piece of string

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tension in a string when swinging a ball vertically. Given a mass (M) of 0.150 kg and a radius (r) of 1.10 m, the correct tension at the bottom of the arc is determined to be 7.35 N when the velocity is doubled. The participant initially misapplied the forces in the equation Net Force = ma, incorrectly setting the tension as negative. The correct approach involves recognizing that tension (Ft) is directed inward, while gravitational force (mg) acts downward.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (Net Force = ma)
  • Knowledge of centripetal force concepts
  • Familiarity with gravitational force calculations
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of centripetal force equations
  • Learn about the effects of varying velocity on tension in circular motion
  • Explore the role of forces in vertical circular motion
  • Practice problems involving tension and gravitational forces in different scenarios
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of circular motion and tension in strings.

brycenrg
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Homework Statement


You swing a ball around a piece of string(vertically). M = 0.150kg r= 1.10m
Calculate the Tention at the bottom of the arc assuming velocity is twice as fast.

Homework Equations


When I do the problem I'm not sure how to set up the NetForce = ma
How do which force is negative and which is positive? I set tension at the bottom to - making the equation to be
mg - Ft = m(v^2/r)
but i don't get right answer

The Attempt at a Solution


mg - Ft = m(v^2/r)
ft = -4 N
but the answer is 7.35 N
 
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Actually I think i just figured it out. The reason it needs to be positive and gravity has to be negative because at the bottom of the path T is pointing inwards because this is Ar. Is this the correct logic? I appreciate it.
 

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