Centripetal force vs period

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between centripetal force, period, and velocity. It is suggested to plot the graph with centripetal force on the y-axis and period on the x-axis. There is also a reminder of the equation a = v^2/r for constant velocity in a circle and a question about the effect of doubling the period on velocity and centripetal force.
  • #1
ahhppull
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Homework Statement



When plotting the centripetal force vs period graph, what goes on the x-axis and y-axis? I thought that since centripetal force does not depend on period, it goes on the x-axis, but now I'm not too sure.

It also says plot Plot Fc as a function of T.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
there's a relationship between period, the velocity of the thing and the angular velocity

remember that a = v^2/r for constant velocity in a circle
 
  • #3
If you double the period what happens to the velocity given the radius stays constant and thus what happens to the centripetal force?
 

1. What is the relationship between centripetal force and period?

The period of an object in circular motion is directly proportional to the centripetal force acting on it. This means that as the centripetal force increases, the period of the object also increases.

2. How does centripetal force affect the speed of a rotating object?

Centripetal force acts towards the center of the circular path and is responsible for keeping the object moving in a circular motion. As the centripetal force increases, the speed of the object also increases. This can be seen in the formula v = ωr, where v is the linear speed, ω is the angular velocity, and r is the radius of the circular path.

3. What is the difference between centripetal force and centrifugal force?

Centripetal force is the force that acts towards the center of the circular path and keeps an object in circular motion. On the other hand, centrifugal force is a fictitious force that appears to act in the opposite direction of centripetal force, pushing an object away from the center of rotation. Centrifugal force does not actually exist and is simply a result of the object's inertia trying to keep it moving in a straight line.

4. How does the mass of an object affect the centripetal force?

The mass of an object does not directly affect the centripetal force, but it does affect the amount of force needed to keep the object in circular motion. According to Newton's second law, F = ma, where F is the force, m is the mass of the object, and a is the acceleration. Therefore, a larger mass will require a larger force to achieve the same acceleration.

5. Can an object have a constant centripetal force and still change its period?

Yes, an object can have a constant centripetal force and still change its period if the radius of the circular path changes. This is because the period is also affected by the distance from the center of rotation. As the radius increases, the period also increases, even with a constant centripetal force.

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