How does radial forc vary with the radius of its circular path?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the conceptual understanding of how radial force varies with the radius of an object's circular path, specifically under conditions of constant frequency and constant speed.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand the relationship between radial force and radius, questioning the differences between speed and frequency in the context of the equation F = mv²/r. Some participants explore the implications of constant frequency versus constant speed on the proportionality of force to radius.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the concepts, with some expressing confusion about the relationships involved. There is an acknowledgment of differing interpretations regarding the proportionality of force to radius under varying conditions, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes confusion about the definitions of speed and frequency and how they relate to the radial force equation, indicating a need for clarification on these concepts.

Arshad_Physic
Messages
50
Reaction score
1

Homework Statement



Its a conceptual question:

Theoretically, how does the radial force exerted on an object vary with the radius of its circular path when it is revolving: (a) at constant frequency? (b) with constant speed?


Homework Equations



F = mv^2/r



The Attempt at a Solution



Assuming that mass is constant, I had thought that the force would be inversely proportional to the radius of its circular path. I went to a physics tutor for help and now I am not sure of this lol - I am absolutely confused! :)

What I am really confused at it is what is the difference between speed and frequency? I know that frequency is cycles per second, but how are they different in this equation (F = mv^2/r)?

Thanks :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
F = m*v^2/r = m*ω^2*r = m*ω*v.
ω=2π*f and v can speed.
 
HI! :)

Thanks for asnwering! :) But I am still confused :)

I understand that Force is inversely proportional to Radius - but is it inversely proportional to radius when its at constant frequency? and constant speed?

I understand that ω=2π*f is equation for frequency.

hang on - does this mean that at constant frequency Force is directly proportional, but at constant speed force is inversely proportional??! : )
 
Yes.
 
Thanks! :)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
55
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
8K