Solving Rotational Motion Homework: Mass m, Length r, Centripetal Force Fc

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem in rotational motion involving a rock of mass 2 kg tied to a string of length 4 m, which is rotating and subject to a centripetal force of 32 N. Participants are exploring calculations related to centripetal acceleration, angular velocity, and angular momentum.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Newton's second law to derive centripetal acceleration and explore the relationships between force, mass, and angular velocity. There are attempts to clarify the formulas used for these calculations, with some questioning the correctness of their approaches.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided feedback on the calculations presented, indicating that certain steps appear correct. Others express uncertainty about the formulas being used and seek validation of their reasoning. The discussion reflects a mix of confirmations and requests for clarification without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention being new to physics and express a desire to ensure their understanding of the formulas and concepts involved. There is an indication of potential confusion regarding the application of specific equations in the context of the problem.

dixonewman
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Homework Statement


A rock of mass m=2kg is tied to a string of length r=4m is rotating at a constant rate and subject to a centripetal force Fc=32N.

Find the:
a)Centripetal acceleration

b)Angular velocity

c)Angular momentum


Homework Equations



a) Ac=V2T/R (Fc=V2T/R; so, V2T=Fc x R/m?)

b) VT=angular velocity x radius

c) l = mvTr

The Attempt at a Solution



a) 32 x 4/2 = 64[m2/s]

b) V2T = 64, so VT = 8; 8/4 = 2 [rad/s]

c) 2 x 8 x 4= 64[kg x m2/s]

I know this is simple stuff, but I'm new to physics, and just wanted to double-check that I'm getting my formulas right. Thanks everyone!
 
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dixonewman said:
a) 32 x 4/2 = 64[m2/s]
Use Newton's 2nd law here.
[tex]F_{centripetal}=ma_{centripetal}[/tex]

dixonewman said:
b) V2T = 64, so VT = 8; 8/4 = 2 [rad/s]


This is correct. You could have also used [itex]F=m \omega^2r[/itex] if you wanted.

dixonewman said:
c) 2 x 8 x 4= 64[kg x m2/s]
[/QUOTE]

This looks good as well.

I know this is simple stuff, but I'm new to physics, and just wanted to double-check that I'm getting my formulas right. Thanks everyone![/QUOTE]
 
Wait, it looks like I may have jumbled up my formulas...

If V2T=Fc x R/m (is this formula correct?), if so, then V2T = 64;

Ac=V2T/R so 64/4 = 16 [m/s2]

Am I still missing the mark?
 
Last edited:
dixonewman said:
Wait, it looks like I may have jumbled up my formulas...

If V2T=Fc x R/m (is this formula correct?), if so, then V2T = 64;

Ac=V2T/R so 64/4 = 16 [m/s2]

Am I still missing the mark?


16ms-2 should be correct
 

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