How can I solve for the mass and radius in this uniform circular motion problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a uniform circular motion problem involving a toy airplane tied to a string. The airplane moves at a constant speed of 1.01 m/s in a horizontal circle, with the string making an angle of 38° with the vertical and a tension of 1.1 N. To find the radius of the circle and the mass of the airplane, participants suggest using Newton's second law and breaking down the forces into components, specifically tension and gravitational force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion
  • Knowledge of circular motion dynamics
  • Ability to resolve forces into components
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams (FBD)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the radius of the circular motion using the formula Fnet = mv²/r
  • Determine the mass of the airplane using the relationship between tension and gravitational force
  • Explore the concept of centripetal force in circular motion
  • Review examples of similar physics problems involving tension and angles
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those tackling problems in uniform circular motion and force analysis, as well as educators looking for practical examples to illustrate these concepts.

ajcairns1980
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Homework Statement



A toy airplane is tied to the ceiling with a string. When the airplane's motor is started, it moves with a constant speed of 1.01 m/s in a horizontal circle, as illustrated in the figure. If the angle the string makes with the vertical is 38°, and the tension of the string is 1.1N:

(a) Find the radius of the horizontal circle of the plane
b) Find the mass of the plane.


The Attempt at a Solution



Im having problems understanding how to attack physics problems a point in the right direction would help! I think I am supposed to split this into components using the angle. I drew a FBD with only tension and mg as acting forces. Do I use Newtons 2nd law?
 
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The first thing to do is to make a picture. You'll notice that there are only 2 forces acting on the plane. Namely, tension and gravity.

You know that the horizontal motion is circular, so that leads to Fnet = mv^2/r
You know Fnet in the x direction, and velocity. Find a relationship to solve for the mass and then you'll only be left with radius as a variable, which is easily solved for.
 

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