Centripetal Force: Weight + Direction Explained

AI Thread Summary
The discussion clarifies the relationship between tension, weight, and centripetal force in a physics problem. The mark scheme indicates that the force in the cord equals the sum of weight and centripetal force, despite their opposing directions. By analyzing the forces acting on the mass, it is established that the net force must provide the necessary centripetal force for rotation. The equation T = Fcp + mg is derived, where T is tension, Fcp is centripetal force, and mg is weight. This explanation resolves the initial confusion regarding the forces' directions and their contributions to tension.
Osaid
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I can't seem to post pictures, but I will give the link to the question along with the link to the answer given in the mark scheme. Here goes:

Question: http://papers.xtremepapers.com/CIE/Cambridge%20International%20A%20and%20AS%20Level/Physics%20(9702)/9702_w07_qp_4.pdf

Answer link (mark scheme): http://papers.xtremepapers.com/CIE/Cambridge%20International%20A%20and%20AS%20Level/Physics%20(9702)/9702_w07_ms_4.pdf

The part I am having a problem with is the last part of the question. The mark scheme states that the force in cord = weight + centripetal force. I don't get why and how this is so because aren't the directions of the weight and the centripetal force opposite?

Thanks in advance, guys !
 
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Osaid said:
The part I am having a problem with is the last part of the question. The mark scheme states that the force in cord = weight + centripetal force. I don't get why and how this is so because aren't the directions of the weight and the centripetal force opposite?

They are indeed acting in opposite directions...

If we take up as positive and draw a FBD for the mass then the net force acting on the mass would be T-mg. Where T is the tension and mg is the weight. Ok with that so far?

In order to make the mass rotate the net force acting on the mass must provide the required centripetal force Fcp. So..

T - mg = Fcp

rearrange that to give

T = Fcp + mg
 
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CWatters said:
They are indeed acting in opposite directions...

If we take up as positive and draw a FBD for the mass then the net force acting on the mass would be T-mg. Where T is the tension and mg is the weight. Ok with that so far?

In order to make the mass rotate the net force acting on the mass must provide the required centripetal force Fcp. So..

T - mg = Fcp

rearrange that to give

T = Fcp + mg
Thanks bro ! I get it now !
 
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