Kleppner & Kolenkow find the tension of a rotating loop of string

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the tension in a rotating loop of string as presented in the physics textbook "An Introduction to Mechanics" by Kleppner and Kolenkow. The correct formula for tension is T = (M*L*ω^2)/(2π)^2, while the user initially derived T = Mω^2/2π, which is incorrect. The user was guided to check the dimensional correctness of their expressions, leading to the realization that they omitted a crucial factor, R, in their calculations. This highlights the importance of dimensional analysis in verifying physics solutions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular velocity (ω) in rotational motion
  • Familiarity with the concepts of tension and force in physics
  • Knowledge of dimensional analysis for verifying equations
  • Basic principles of circular motion and mass distribution
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of tension in rotating systems using "An Introduction to Mechanics" by Kleppner and Kolenkow
  • Learn about dimensional analysis techniques in physics
  • Explore examples of circular motion and forces in advanced physics textbooks
  • Practice solving problems related to angular momentum and tension in rotating bodies
USEFUL FOR

High school students studying physics, educators seeking to clarify concepts in rotational dynamics, and anyone interested in mastering the principles of tension in circular motion.

AlwaysCurious
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Hello, I am a high school student trying to learn physics out of Kleppner and Kolenkow. Unfortunately, the solutions to some of the problems are not available online, nor is a solutions manual available, so I am unable to find out where I am wrong in some cases, such as this one. I would appreciate your clarification.

Homework Statement


A piece of string of length L and mass M is fastened into a circular loop and set spinning about the center of a circle with uniform angular velocity ω. Find the tension in the string.

Homework Equations


The answer in the book states that T = (M*L*ω^2)/(2π)^2, whereas the answer that I got was T = Mω^2/2π.

The Attempt at a Solution


Please the attached pdf - I have tried to write as clearly as possible, and am unable to find how my solution is incorrect. Thank you!
 

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A useful check is whether the various items you have expressions for are dimensionally correct. Your final answer has dimensions MT-2, which is wrong for a force.
Apply the same test to your expression ΔθM/L.
 
haruspex said:
A useful check is whether the various items you have expressions for are dimensionally correct. Your final answer has dimensions MT-2, which is wrong for a force.
Apply the same test to your expression ΔθM/L.

Thank you! I forgot to include the factor R in there, which gets me where I want to go.
 

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