Normal Force during centripetal acceleration

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion centers around the concept of normal force in the context of centripetal acceleration, specifically when swinging a ball on a string. Participants explore the conditions under which a normal force might be considered to exist from different reference frames.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the perspectives of both an outside observer and the ball itself regarding the presence of normal force. Questions arise about the nature of forces acting on the ball and the definition of normal force in relation to contact surfaces.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the differing viewpoints on normal force. Some guidance has been offered regarding the distinction between normal force and pseudoforce, but no consensus has been reached on the definitions or implications.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding non-inertial reference frames and the conditions under which forces are defined, particularly in relation to contact with surfaces.

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General Question Here:

Let's say you are swinging a ball around on a string. Will there be a normal force?
 
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That's a good question and it depends on your perspective.

If you take the view point of an outside observer, then no. There is the tension in the string, the circular speed and the radial acceleration; all motion is accounted for from that perspective.

If your view point is from the ball, then yes. There is a pseudoforce acting on you that pulls you away from the center. That pseudoforce is the normal force, which is opposite from the acceleration.

It's not a topic that I have much depth on, but that is what I know.

Research non-inertial reference frames for more.
 
Thank you. It makes sense that there would be no normal force because there is no surface acting on the ball.
 
You're welcome.

I'd just like to append what I said with this:
What I described from the view point of the ball would not be a normal force either. That is still a pseudoforce.
A normal force always requires contact with a surface.
 

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