Circular motion and vertical circle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concepts of uniform circular motion, specifically differentiating between horizontal and vertical circles. Participants explore the implications of these types of motion in problem-solving contexts, including the effects of gravitational forces and tension in strings.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants explain that a horizontal circle has a horizontal plane with a vertical axis, while a vertical circle has a vertical plane.
  • One participant notes that in a vertical circle, the force of gravity acts perpendicular to the motion, affecting tension differently at various points in the circle.
  • Another participant suggests that the tension in the string varies, being maximum at the bottom of the vertical circle and minimum at the top, but expresses uncertainty about the exact forces involved.
  • A participant questions the calculation of tension at different points, proposing that the forces acting on the string differ based on the position of the weight in the vertical circle.
  • Some participants agree on the variation of tension in a vertical circle but do not reach a consensus on the specifics of the calculations.
  • One participant raises a technical point about the impossibility of achieving a perfect horizontal circle, prompting further inquiry into the reasons behind this claim.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the basic definitions of horizontal and vertical circles, but there is disagreement regarding the specifics of tension calculations and the feasibility of perfect horizontal circles. The discussion remains unresolved on these technical points.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the calculations involving forces and tension, indicating a need for further clarification on the assumptions made regarding gravitational effects and the nature of circular motion.

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Now I am learning Uniform Circular motion, but I don't know what do horizontal circle and vertical circle mean? I think they must be very different in solving problems. Hope you can tell me, thank you.
 
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A horizontal circle generally means that the plane of the circle is horizontal (the axis is vertical). A vertical circle is the opposite.
 
a horizontal circle will have the force of gravity parallel to the axis of rotation, while a vertical circle will have gravity perpendicular.

The tension in the string will vary at different positions along its path of travel in the case of a vertical circle. (Maximum at the bottom, mv^2/r + mg, minimum at the top, mv^2/r - mg).

I think at least. Please correct me if I'm wrong o_O
 
Wouldn't the tension in the string be (F+mg) at the bottom and (F-mg) at the bottom? When your at the bottom you need a greater force to work against gravity to pull the weight up, but when your at the top gravity helps you.When the weight is on the side it's force is equal( Parallel?)
 
clustro said:
a horizontal circle will have the force of gravity parallel to the axis of rotation, while a vertical circle will have gravity perpendicular.
Yes.

The tension in the string will vary at different positions along its path of travel in the case of a vertical circle. (Maximum at the bottom, mv^2/r + mg, minimum at the top, mv^2/r - mg).
In the case of an object on a string being spun at constant speed in a vertical circle, you are correct.
 
Technically it isn't possible to whirl a bob in a perfect horizontal circle - see if you can figure out why.
 
Ashwath said:
Technically it isn't possible to whirl a bob in a perfect horizontal circle - see if you can figure out why.
Why not? (The string won't be horizontal, but the circular path can be.)
 

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