Centrifugal force spinning Basketball

  • #1
Hi, Looking for Centrifugal force on water droplets on my spinning Basketball at 33 RPM, 45 RPM and 78 RPM
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.

It appears the stippled surface of the ball holds the droplets in position, so they do not move during rotation. Maybe drops stick to the worn tip of the bump or to contamination of the surface between bumps. That surface roughness, and attraction, is clearly strong enough to counter gravity.

A droplet near the equator or the pole will not be expected to migrate across the surface when the ball is spun. Near the equator, the force would tend to lift the droplet off the surface. But the rate of rotation, required to break free, would need to be greater than 78 RPM before overcoming the surface tension and the bond with the ball material.

It might help if we knew what you were trying to disprove with the experiment.
 

1. What is centrifugal force?

Centrifugal force is the apparent outward force that is experienced by an object as it moves in a circular motion. It is caused by the inertia of the object and the centripetal force that is acting on it.

2. How does centrifugal force affect a spinning basketball?

As a basketball is spun, it experiences centrifugal force which causes it to move in a circular path. This force also causes the basketball to push against the hand or surface that is holding it, creating a sensation of weight or pressure.

3. What factors affect the strength of centrifugal force on a spinning basketball?

The strength of centrifugal force on a spinning basketball is affected by the mass of the ball, the speed of rotation, and the distance of the ball from the center of rotation. The greater these factors are, the stronger the centrifugal force will be.

4. How does centrifugal force help a basketball player when shooting?

When a basketball player shoots the ball, they apply spin to it which creates centrifugal force. This force gives the ball stability and helps to keep it on a straight path, making it easier to aim and control the shot.

5. Can centrifugal force be used to perform tricks with a spinning basketball?

Yes, centrifugal force can be used to perform various tricks with a spinning basketball, such as spinning it on a finger or bouncing it off various surfaces. These tricks rely on the balance and stability provided by the centrifugal force acting on the ball.

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