Calculating Acceleration and Tension in Vertical Circular Motion

In summary, a 0.40 kg mass is being whirled in a vertical circle with a 0.40 m long cord. At the highest point, the tension in the cord is 0.80 N. To find the acceleration and speed of the mass at the lowest point, you can use the formula mv^2/r=F-mg. For finding the tension in the cord at the lowest point, you would use the same formula and draw a diagram of all the forces acting on the mass.
  • #1
rachael
55
0
7 A body of mass 0.40 kg is whirled in a vertical circle on
the end of a cord of length 0.40 m. If the tension in the
cord is 0.80 N when the body is at its highest point,
find:

b the acceleration and the speed of the mass at the
lowest point
c the tension in the cord at the lowest point.

How would you find the velocity for part b?
Would you use mv^2/r=F-mg if not what do i use?
for part c what do i use to find the tension at the lowest point?Do i use the same formula as well for b?
 
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  • #2
Yes, you can work out the net force acting (which will always be towards the centre of the circle) and then apply Newton's law.
For part c you already know the centripetal force (you would have worked it out in a), then draw a diagram of all the forces acting when the body is at the bottom of the circle.
 
  • #3
thank you...
 

1. What is vertical circular motion?

Vertical circular motion is a type of motion in which an object moves in a circular path around a fixed point, such as a loop or roller coaster. The path of the object may be tilted at an angle, but it maintains its circular shape as it moves.

2. What causes an object to experience vertical circular motion?

An object experiences vertical circular motion when it has both a horizontal and vertical component of motion. This can be caused by a combination of forces, such as gravity and centripetal force, acting on the object.

3. How is the speed of an object in vertical circular motion determined?

The speed of an object in vertical circular motion is determined by its centripetal acceleration, which is the acceleration towards the center of the circular path. This acceleration is equal to the square of the object's speed divided by the radius of the circular path.

4. What is the difference between centripetal and centrifugal force in vertical circular motion?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, while centrifugal force is the apparent outward force experienced by an object in circular motion. In reality, centrifugal force is a result of centripetal force, as the object's inertia causes it to resist the change in direction.

5. How does the radius of a circular path affect an object's motion in vertical circular motion?

The radius of a circular path has a direct effect on an object's motion in vertical circular motion. The larger the radius, the smaller the acceleration and speed of the object, resulting in a slower and less intense motion. On the other hand, a smaller radius will result in a faster and more intense motion.

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