Finding Velocity at which mass being spun on string will bre

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a lab setup involving spinning a mass on a string to determine the velocity at which the string breaks. The method involves pulling the string through a cylindrical tube, which reduces the radius and increases velocity until the string snaps. Key equations mentioned include F=mv^2/r and F=mw^2r, with an emphasis on understanding centripetal force and acceleration. The user seeks clarification on how to efficiently calculate acceleration and whether it can be assumed constant despite changes in radius. There is a request for the user to follow a specific template for clearer communication in future posts.
Nikki1357
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This is a question for the setup of a lab. I understand that the string must be tied to the mass and then spun in an overhead circle. A cylindrical tube with non-sharp edges will be used to spin the mass. Then, the string will be pulled through the mass, which would reduce the radius and consequently cause the velocity to increase. At one point the string would break. Since the radius at which the string broke is known and the time can be found the velocity could be found, provided the acceleration was known. Velocity=acceleration*times. What is the most efficient method to find acceleration? Can I assume there is a constant angular acceleration because it is traveling the same circle in the same amount of time? But will it change because the radius of the circle in smaller? I have a good understanding of F=mv^2/r and F=mw^2r. I also understand that the force of tension is the centripetal force that is acting inward and causing the acceleration. I just don't understand how to collect data to determine what velocity the mass was spinning at when the string broke. Please help!
 
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Sorry I meant the string will be pulled through the tube that is being used to spin the mass.
 
Nikki1357 said:
This is a question for the setup of a lab. I understand that the string must be tied to the mass and then spun in an overhead circle. A cylindrical tube with non-sharp edges will be used to spin the mass. Then, the string will be pulled through the mass, which would reduce the radius and consequently cause the velocity to increase. At one point the string would break. Since the radius at which the string broke is known and the time can be found the velocity could be found, provided the acceleration was known. Velocity=acceleration*times. What is the most efficient method to find acceleration? Can I assume there is a constant angular acceleration because it is traveling the same circle in the same amount of time? But will it change because the radius of the circle in smaller? I have a good understanding of F=mv^2/r and F=mw^2r. I also understand that the force of tension is the centripetal force that is acting inward and causing the acceleration. I just don't understand how to collect data to determine what velocity the mass was spinning at when the string broke. Please help!
It is very hard to help you when you delete the Homework Help Template when you post here asking for help. Could you please re-post using the HH Template?
 
berkeman said:
It is very hard to help you when you delete the Homework Help Template when you post here asking for help. Could you please re-post using the HH Template?

Sorry I'm a little confused on using this website. I reposted using the right format on a new thread. I apologize for bumping! I didn't understand what that meant.
 
The Template has three sections. The Problem Statement, the Relevant Equations, and your Attempt at the Solution. Can you re-organize your post to fill out those three sections? :smile:
 
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