Centripetal Force: Weight + Direction Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the relationship between weight and centripetal force in the context of circular motion. It establishes that the tension in the cord (T) is equal to the sum of the centripetal force (Fcp) and the weight (mg) of the mass. The formula derived is T = Fcp + mg, which accounts for the opposing directions of weight and centripetal force. This understanding is crucial for solving problems related to forces in circular motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams (FBD)
  • Knowledge of centripetal force concepts
  • Basic algebra for rearranging equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of centripetal force in circular motion
  • Learn how to construct and analyze free body diagrams
  • Explore applications of tension in circular motion problems
  • Review related physics concepts such as gravitational force and its effects
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and circular motion, as well as educators seeking to explain the concepts of weight and centripetal force effectively.

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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