Centripetal Force Skater Speed Question

In summary, the skater's hands are spinning at a speed of 23.56 rad/s and the distance between her hands is considered the diameter of the circle traced out by her hands.
  • #1
jibjab
13
0

Homework Statement


A skater holds her arms outstretched as she spins at 225 rpm. What is the speed of her hands if they are 152 cm apart?

The Attempt at a Solution


I converted 225 rpm to 3.57 rps and found the angular velocity (23.56 rad/s) to plug into the equation v=wr, but it didn't work. What would that distance between her hands be considered? I bet this is rediculously easy but I can't figure it out! Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
As she spins, the tips of her hands trace out a circle, the diameter of which is the distance between her two hands.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Ah thank you!
 

What is centripetal force?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It acts towards the center of the circle and is necessary to maintain the circular motion.

What factors affect the centripetal force of a skater?

The centripetal force of a skater is affected by the mass of the skater, the speed at which they are moving, and the radius of their circular path.

How does the speed of the skater affect the centripetal force?

The speed of the skater has a direct relationship with the centripetal force. As the speed increases, the centripetal force also increases, and vice versa.

What is the equation for calculating the centripetal force of a skater?

The equation for centripetal force is Fc = mv²/r, where Fc is the centripetal force, m is the mass of the skater, v is the speed, and r is the radius of the circular path.

Can the centripetal force of a skater be greater than their weight?

Yes, the centripetal force can be greater than the weight of the skater. This is because centripetal force is dependent on speed and radius, while weight is dependent on mass and gravity. So, even if the skater's weight is less than the centripetal force, they can still maintain their circular motion as long as the other factors are sufficient.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
11K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
17K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
4K
Back
Top