What is the Relationship Between Force and Weight?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between force and weight, specifically addressing calculations involving force values and mass. Participants are examining the distinction between mass and weight in the context of physics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate ratios of force to weight but questions the correctness of their approach. Some participants highlight the difference between mass and weight, suggesting a misunderstanding in the original calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the definitions of weight and mass, with some participants providing feedback on the original poster's calculations. There is a recognition of the need for clearer understanding, but no explicit consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the definitions of weight as a force measured in Newtons versus mass measured in kilograms, indicating a potential source of confusion in the original poster's calculations.

Northern Cardinal
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Homework Statement
I need help figuring out c.

a) A 15.0-kg child is riding a playground merry-go-round that is rotating at 45.0 rpm. What centripetal force must she exert to stay on if she is 1.50 m from its center?
Correct answer: 499.649 N
b) What centripetal force does she need to stay on an amusement park merry-go-round that rotates at 3.00 rpm if she is 7.10 m from its center?
Correct answer: 10.511 N
c) Compare each force with her weight.
Relevant Equations
force from part (a) / weight = _______
force from part (b) / weight = _______
So here's what I've tried:

force from part (a) / weight = 499.649N / 15kg = 33.310
force from part (b) / weight = 10.511N / 15kg = 0.701

Apparently this wasn't correct. What am I doing wrong? I feel like I'm missing the obvious.
 
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Mass is stated in kg. That's not weight. Weight is a force in Newtons.
 
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Thanks! I was able to figure out the correct answer.
 
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Excellent!
 

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