Finding tension of a string spinning horizontally

[Madelin Pierce]

Homework Statement

Spin 340 gram mass at the end of a 72 cm string in a horizontal circle around head 2.5 rev/s. Calculate tension

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I know tension might be equal to mass times centripetal acceleration, but I’m not sure

 

[CWatters]

Make a free body diagram showing the forces on the mass.

 

[PeterO]

Homework Statement

Spin 340 gram mass at the end of a 72 cm string in a horizontal circle around head 2.5 rev/s. Calculate tension

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I know tension might be equal to mass times centripetal acceleration, but I’m not sure

Not sure if that is what it is or not sure how to calculate it? Why not do the calculation anyway and see if the answer inspires you with any confidence.

 

[Dadface]

This must be a trick question.

 

[gneill]

This must be a trick question.

How so?

 

[Doc Al]

I know tension might be equal to mass times centripetal acceleration, but I’m not sure

Hint: Is the string horizontal?

As CWatters suggests, draw a free body diagram for the mass. Analyze horizontal and vertical forces.

 

[Dadface]

This must be a trick question.

How so?

The question is unclear and implies that the string is horizontal, which is impossible.

 

[PeterO]

The question is unclear and implies that the string is horizontal.

I suppose you could do a calculation assuming the string was horizontal and IF the Tension calculates to many times the weight force, the assumption was reasonable - given the answer will be to 2 significant figures only. Otherwise the question is quite tricky, and the free-body diagram is a good, next, starting point

 

[gneill]

The question is unclear and implies that the string is horizontal.

No, it only says that the mass moves in a horizontal circle. Students should be savvy enough to know (or discover) that the string will not be horizontal. It's a learning opportunity, not a trick.

 

[ZapperZ]

The Attempt at a Solution

I know tension might be equal to mass times centripetal acceleration, but I’m not sure

This is not "The attempt at a solution".

You must at least know how to start such a problem, i.e. with a free-body diagram. Can't you at least do that and show this? Otherwise, you have a bigger problem in basic mechanics than just this question.

Please note that we can only build upon what you already know! Without you describing what you already know, there's nothing to build on.

Zz.