Solving Tetherball Problem: Find Tension & Angle θ

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The discussion revolves around solving a physics problem involving a 0.3 kg ball attached to a 50 cm string, completing two circles per second. Participants suggest using two equations related to tension and gravitational force, specifically Ftcosθ = Mg and mv²/r = ftsinθ. The challenge lies in determining the radius and angle θ, as the radius is dependent on θ, complicating the solution. Suggestions include substituting expressions for radius and using the period to find velocity. The conversation emphasizes the need for algebraic manipulation to resolve the equations effectively.
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Homework Statement


A .3 kg ball is attached to a string that is 50.0 cm in length, and completes 2 circles every second. Find the tension required to whirl the ball with the given constraints and also find the angle θ

2. The attempt at a solution
I only have that Ftcosθ = Mg and that mv^2/r = ftsinθ
I don't know where to go from there since all I have is the length and mass because to find the radius it is r=Lsinθ which I cannot find without θ...
 
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ybgl said:

Homework Statement


A .3 kg ball is attached to a string that is 50.0 cm in length, and completes 2 circles every second. Find the tension required to whirl the ball with the given constraints and also find the angle θ

2. The attempt at a solution
I only have that Ftcosθ = Mg and that mv^2/r = ftsinθ
I don't know where to go from there since all I have is the length and mass because to find the radius it is r=Lsinθ which I cannot find without θ...
Welcome to PF!

This is just an algebra problem now. You have done the physics!

2 equations. 2 unknowns. Solve. Hint: try dividing the two equations.

AM
 
Last edited:
I have tried, it gives me (g)(r)sinθ/cosθ=v^2 which is 3 unknowns since I don't know radius, velocity, or θ
 
ybgl said:
I have tried, it gives me (g)(r)sinθ/cosθ=v^2 which is 3 unknowns since I don't know radius, velocity, or θ
You can work out r from L and θ. θ is the downward angle that the tether makes as measured from the horizontal, so r = Lcosθ. Just substitute into your equation.

v can be determined from the period and radius. Or you can just use mω2r for centripetal force.

AM
 
Andrew Mason said:
You can work out r from L and θ. θ is the downward angle that the tether makes as measured from the horizontal, so r = Lcosθ. Just substitute into your equation.

v can be determined from the period and radius. Or you can just use mω2r for centripetal force.

AM
And where do the solution go from here .Kind of stuck somewhere
 
Welcome to PF, @Lesleyanne :smile:

This thread is over 8 years old, so it's best if you start a new thread here in the Homework Help, Introductory Physics forum and show your work on your problem. That's the best way to get tutorial help with your schoolwork here. Thanks.
 
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