NEED HELP A ball swung in a conical pendulum (circular motion?) question.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving a conical pendulum with a 0.30 kg ball and a string length of 95 cm at a 22-degree angle with the vertical. Participants clarify the equations of motion, emphasizing the need to separate the forces into x and y components. The correct approach involves using the tension in the string (Ft) to balance gravitational force (mg) and provide centripetal force through trigonometric functions of the angle. The key equations derived include Ft * cos(22) = mg and Ft * sin(22) = centripetal force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of free body diagrams in physics
  • Knowledge of centripetal force and its relation to circular motion
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions (sine and cosine) in physics applications
  • Basic principles of Newton's laws of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the speed of the ball using the derived equations for tension and centripetal force
  • Explore the concept of conical pendulum dynamics in more detail
  • Review examples of circular motion problems involving forces and angles
  • Study the application of Newton's second law in two dimensions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and circular motion, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to conical pendulums and force analysis.

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Homework Statement



A .30kg ball is swung in a conical pendulum whose length is 95cm. If the string makes an angle of 22 degrees with the vertical, what are (a) the balls speed and (b) the tension in the string

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I drew a freebody diagram. do i make an x and y equation. X: ma = -mg
Y: 0 = Fn-mg + Ft

-Ft = Fn-mg I need help to know if that's right? If so what's the next step?

Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks
 
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To find x and y components of weight of the ball and tension in the string , you have to use angle 22 degrees. Think about it.
-Ft = Fn-mg
How did you get this one?
 
It was part of my free body diagram I came up with, I assume I did it wrong. mg would still be there right? Would I use a cos20 and sin20 in some equations?
 
Yes. Ft *cos22 balances mg and Ft*sin22 provides centripetal force.
 
Hi man you still need help?
 
It sounds like it must be circular motion. They are asking for the speed of the ball. If the trajectory were anything other than a circle, the speed would be constantly changing, as well as the angle.

What is Fn in your equation? Is it a normal force? There should only be two forces acting. Gravity and Tension. Try to find the centripetal force that causes this circular motion with your force diagram.
 
Hey guys, the original post is two years old. Check the date before you start putting a lot of work into this.
 

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