Understanding Vertical Circle Motion and Tension in Circular Motion

In summary, the magnitude of the tension in circular motion is dependent on the weight of the object, its position with respect to the horizontal diameter of the circle, and its speed. Tension is lower above the horizontal diameter due to the component of weight acting towards the center of the circle. Only tension provides the centripetal force when the object is at the horizontal diameter. Below the horizontal diameter, tension increases as weight opposes the tension force. Additionally, the component of weight in the direction of motion, mg*sin(θ), creates a tangential acceleration and can cause variations in the speed of the object.
  • #1
jsmith613
614
0
This question is about circular motion in a vertical circle

Question 1:
would I be correct in assuming that the magnitude for tension is dependant on
(a) the weight of the object
(b) the position of the object with respect to the horizontal diameter of the circle

So above the 'horizontal diameter' tension is lower than below the 'horizontal diameter' because a component of weight acts towards the circle centre.
When it lies ON the circumference AT the 'horizontal diameter' ONLY tension provides the centripetal force
BELOW the 'horizontal diameter' tension increases because weight opposes the tension force

Is this all correct?

Question 2:
If you look at the free body diagram attached, mg*sin(θ) is present. What does this compoenent of weight do??

Thanks
 

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  • #2
jsmith613 said:
Question 1:
would I be correct in assuming that the magnitude for tension is dependant on
(a) the weight of the object
(b) the position of the object with respect to the horizontal diameter of the circle
Yes, but also the speed of the object.

So above the 'horizontal diameter' tension is lower than below the 'horizontal diameter' because a component of weight acts towards the circle centre.
When it lies ON the circumference AT the 'horizontal diameter' ONLY tension provides the centripetal force
BELOW the 'horizontal diameter' tension increases because weight opposes the tension force

Is this all correct?
Sounds good, as long as you include the effect of speed.

Question 2:
If you look at the free body diagram attached, mg*sin(θ) is present. What does this compoenent of weight do??
It creates a tangential acceleration.
 
  • #3
Doc Al said:
It creates a tangential acceleration.

in some cases mgsinθ will be in the same direction as velocity and in others it will be in the exact opposite...I presume this is the force that will cause the speed of the object to vary?
 
  • #4
jsmith613 said:
in some cases mgsinθ will be in the same direction as velocity and in others it will be in the exact opposite...I presume this is the force that will cause the speed of the object to vary?
That is correct.
 
  • #5
Doc Al said:
That is correct.

thanks
 

FAQ: Understanding Vertical Circle Motion and Tension in Circular Motion

1. What is vertical circle motion?

Vertical circle motion is the movement of an object in a circular path that is perpendicular to the ground. This type of motion occurs when an object is moving in a vertical plane, such as on a roller coaster loop or a swing.

2. How is tension involved in circular motion?

Tension is a force that is present in circular motion when an object is moving in a circular path. It is the force that is exerted by a string, rope, or other object that is keeping the object in circular motion. The amount of tension in the string or rope will vary depending on the speed and mass of the object, as well as the radius of the circular path.

3. Why is tension important in understanding circular motion?

Tension is important in understanding circular motion because it is the force that allows the object to maintain its circular path. Without tension, the object would not be able to stay in circular motion and would either fly off in a straight line or collapse inward towards the center.

4. How does tension change in vertical circle motion?

In vertical circle motion, tension will change as the object moves from the bottom of the circle to the top. At the bottom, the tension will be at its maximum, as the object is experiencing the greatest downward force. As the object moves towards the top, the tension will decrease, reaching zero at the top. As the object continues its motion, the tension will increase again as it moves back towards the bottom of the circle.

5. What factors affect tension in circular motion?

The amount of tension in circular motion is affected by several factors, including the speed and mass of the object, the radius of the circular path, and the angle at which the object is moving. For example, a heavier object moving at a faster speed on a smaller radius will experience greater tension than a lighter object moving at a slower speed on a larger radius.

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