Forces involved in circular motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the forces involved in circular motion, specifically the relationship between tension and centripetal force. It clarifies that tension in a string, when a ball is swung in circular motion, acts as the centripetal force directed towards the center of the circular path. The reaction force to this tension, as per Newton's third law, is the force exerted by the ball on the string, which is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. The confusion surrounding centrifugal force is addressed, confirming it is not a reaction force but rather a perceived force in a rotating reference frame.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of centripetal acceleration and its formula, F=mv^2/r
  • Familiarity with the concept of forces in circular motion
  • Basic grasp of gravitational forces and their effects on celestial bodies
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the applications of Newton's third law in various physical scenarios
  • Explore the concept of centripetal force in different contexts, such as roller coasters
  • Learn about the differences between centripetal and centrifugal forces
  • Investigate the effects of gravitational forces on orbital motion, particularly in celestial mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of forces in circular motion.

scottnobles
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Homework Statement



hey, i was looking at an explanation in a textbook where it says a ball on the end of a string is swung horizontally in circular motion. There is a centripetal acceleration therefore tension acts as the centripetal force and acts along the radius of the circular path. What i want to know is that Newtons third law states that every action has an opposite and equal reaction. So what is the reaction force of the tension acting on the string?


Homework Equations



F=mv^2/r

The Attempt at a Solution


I can't seem to be able to figure out what it is but i think mass would not be the reaction force because mass is a scaler and has no direction. The other explanation would be centrifugal force but isn't centrifugal force a reaction force of centripetal force? which is what I am trying to find? This is why I am a little confused.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Moon rotates around the Earth because the gravitational force of the Earth pulls the moon towards it. It is action of Earth on moon. Because of the initial horizontal velocity the moon is no falling towards the earth. As as reaction moon pulls the earth. Tides are the evidence of that.
 

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