Finding Velocity at which mass being spun on string will bre

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a lab setup involving a mass being spun on a string, where the goal is to determine the velocity at which the string will break. The original poster describes the mechanics of the setup, including the use of a cylindrical tube and the implications of changing the radius on velocity and acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand how to calculate acceleration and whether it can be assumed constant due to the nature of the motion. They also express uncertainty about how to collect data to determine the velocity at the moment the string breaks.

Discussion Status

Participants have pointed out the need for a structured approach to the problem, emphasizing the importance of using the Homework Help Template. There is ongoing clarification about the setup and the physics involved, but no consensus or resolution has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of confusion regarding the forum's posting guidelines, which may affect the clarity of the original poster's inquiry. The need for a structured format in presenting the problem is highlighted.

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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