Water in the Bucket: Free Body Diagram? (Vertical Centripetal Force)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the forces acting on water in a bucket tied to a rope, revolving vertically in a counterclockwise direction. At the top position of the bucket, the key forces identified are gravitational force acting downward and the centripetal force directed towards the center of the circular path. The tension in the rope is also considered, although its presence is debated. Ultimately, both the gravitational and centripetal forces act downward on the water at this position, confirming the dynamics of circular motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal force in circular motion
  • Knowledge of free body diagrams in physics
  • Familiarity with gravitational force concepts
  • Basic principles of tension in ropes
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of centripetal acceleration in circular motion
  • Learn how to construct free body diagrams for various physical scenarios
  • Explore the effects of tension in rotating systems
  • Investigate the relationship between gravitational force and circular motion
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and circular motion, as well as educators looking for practical examples of free body diagrams and force analysis.

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Water in the Bucket: Free Body Diagram?? (Vertical Centripetal Force)

Homework Statement



If a bucket tied to a rope is revolving vertically in an counter clockwise direction, what would be the Free Body Diagram of "water" in the bucket at the top position?


Homework Equations



There are no equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I am guessing there would be two forces: gravitational pointing downward and contact force with the bucket pointing in the direction opposite to the motion of the bucket so that would be left if the bucket is going counter clockwise vertically. Are there any more forces on water inside the bucket at the top position and am I right about the direction of the two forces.
 
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There are three forces I can think of off the top of my head. The question doesn't get to specific so it could be 2 or 3 forces and so on.

Gravity
Centripetal Force
Tension Force in the rope

The tension one is a most likely but there could not be one. I'll leave you to figure out the rest.
 


Yes you're right, there is gravity pulling vertically down, and there are contact forces with the bucket. But since the bucket feels centripetal force into the circle, the water will be overall pushed towards the centre of the circle by the walls of the bucket, hence the water feels a centripetal force.

At the 'top' position then, both forces would be acting downwards.

Hope that helps
 

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