Centripetal Lab- finding the mass from the slope

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics lab involving centripetal force, where a rubber stopper is rotated in a horizontal circle with varying masses (100g, 150g, 200g, 250g, and 300g) attached to a string. Participants are tasked with plotting the relationship between centripetal force (Fc) and velocity squared (v^2) to determine the mass of the rubber stopper. The equation used is Fc = mv^2/r, and one participant reported a slope value of 0.156 from their Excel analysis but sought further guidance on interpreting this result.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal force and its formula (Fc = mv^2/r)
  • Proficiency in data analysis using Excel
  • Knowledge of plotting graphs and interpreting slopes
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts related to circular motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to accurately plot data in Excel and draw a line of best fit
  • Research methods for calculating mass from slope in centripetal force experiments
  • Explore the relationship between centripetal force and velocity in circular motion
  • Study the effects of varying mass on centripetal force in practical experiments
USEFUL FOR

Students conducting physics experiments, educators teaching centripetal force concepts, and anyone interested in applying data analysis to physical science labs.

wispydog
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Homework Statement


The lab: Centripetal Force Lab
a Rubber stopper is moving in a horizontal circle at a constant radius and it is attached to a string where at the bottom, there is a mass where the mass is 100g, 150g, 200g, 250, and 300g (can see image attached)

from the lab, I collected data for each mass and now we have to plot Fc vs v^2 and draw a line of best fit and find the slope of the line. In relation to the line, try to find the mass of the rubber stopper.
(i attached another image that has my data points)

Homework Equations


I'm not too sure but
Fc= mv^2/r

The Attempt at a Solution


I keep on finding that the equation is 0.156 on excel but Idk where to go from here. [/B]
 

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Hi wispydog,

Welcome to Physics Forums!

Can you give us some details about how you arrived at the values in your table? What are the units associated with the values?
 

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