Centrifugal Force: Tension in String w/ Mass in Horizontal Circle

AI Thread Summary
In a horizontal circular motion, tension in the string is necessary to provide the centripetal force that keeps the mass moving in a circle. The mass experiences centripetal acceleration towards the center, which is countered by the tension in the string. This tension acts as the centripetal force, ensuring the mass remains in circular motion. Newton's third law applies here, as the tension force exerted by the string is equal and opposite to the force exerted by the mass. Thus, the tension in the string is essential for maintaining the circular path of the mass.
flo123
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excluding the answer of centrifugal forces, why is there a tension in a piece of string with a mass attached on the end, going in a HORIZONTAL circular movement, when the mass is always accelerating towards the centre anyway??
 
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The tension force IS the centripetal force.So a centripetal acceleration automatically means a tension in the string.

Daniel.
 
is this using Newtons 3rd law, that when a force acts on something, it will then have an equal force exerted back onto it? so the centripetal force keeping the mass in orbit, has an equal force (the tension) to the centripetal force in the string?
 
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