Circular motion and vertical circle

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Uniform circular motion involves two types of circular paths: horizontal and vertical circles. A horizontal circle has its plane horizontal with gravity acting parallel to the axis of rotation, while a vertical circle has gravity acting perpendicular to the motion. Tension in the string varies in a vertical circle, being maximum at the bottom (mv^2/r + mg) and minimum at the top (mv^2/r - mg). The discussion also highlights the challenge of maintaining a perfect horizontal circle, as the string cannot remain horizontal while the object is in motion. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for solving related physics problems effectively.
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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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