Circular Motion Problem: Finding Tension in a Vertical Circle [11.8 N]

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a circular motion problem involving an object of mass 0.20 kg moving in a vertical circle. The original poster seeks to determine the tension in the string when the object is at the lowest point, given that the tension is zero at the highest point.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate the forces acting on the object at both the highest and lowest points of the circular motion, questioning their calculations regarding centripetal force and tension.
  • Some participants suggest using the law of conservation of energy to find the velocity at the lowest point, indicating that the centripetal force is not constant throughout the motion.
  • There is a discussion about the implications of providing too much information versus guiding the original poster to arrive at the solution independently.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing hints and clarifications without reaching a consensus on the final approach. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of energy conservation, but no explicit solutions have been provided.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of homework guidelines, emphasizing the importance of allowing the original poster to engage with the problem-solving process while avoiding direct solutions.

PhysicStud01
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Homework Statement


object of mass 0.20 kg tied to a string is made to move in a vertical circle. When the object is at the highest point, the tension in the string is zero. Determine the tension in the string when the object is at the lowest point. [11.8 N]

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


i tried it and could not arrive at the state answer in bracket. at highest point, weight + tension gives the centripetal force. since tension is said to be zero, at the hioghest point, weight = centripetal force.

then at lowest point, tension - weight gives centripetal. tension is the sum of centripetal and weight = 2 x weight since centripetal was calculated to be equal to weight. but this is not the answer given.
am i missing something?
 
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Your right about the first part. But the centripetal force acting on the body is not a constant.

At the highest position
T=0
mg = v²/r
v =√gr
this velocity is not the same velocity which it has at the lowest position
To calculate that use the law of conservation of energy :
½mv²highest position = ½mv²lowest position + mg(2r)
and then find your tension.
 
Last edited:
Suraj M said:
<snips>
T = 11.8 N
okay? :oldsmile:

You did pretty much the entire problem. You did it well but you did too much. Let the OP do his own homework and just give hints.

I know there is an urge to leap out and solve the problem. I have the same urge. But once you solve it, don't post the entire thing. If you do the entire thing for them they won't get the benefit of the homework.
 
DEvens said:
You did pretty much the entire problem. You did it well but you did too much. Let the OP do his own homework and just give hints.

I know there is an urge to leap out and solve the problem. I have the same urge. But once you solve it, don't post the entire thing. If you do the entire thing for them they won't get the benefit of the homework.
ok DEvens .. i realized that and edited it ..and sorry.
 
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