When Does a Bob Attached to a String Become Slack?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conditions under which a bob attached to a string becomes slack, specifically when the tension (T) in the string equals zero. The critical equation governing this scenario is T - mg cos(theta) = mv^2/R, where mg cos(theta) represents the gravitational force component acting along the string. The angle theta must be restricted to 90 degrees or less for this equation to apply, indicating that the bob's velocity (v) and angle (theta) are crucial in determining when slack occurs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as tension, gravitational force, and centripetal motion.
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion, particularly T - mg cos(theta) = mv^2/R.
  • Knowledge of angular displacement and its impact on forces in circular motion.
  • Basic trigonometry to analyze the relationship between angle theta and the forces involved.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of varying theta on the tension in the string during circular motion.
  • Explore the concept of centripetal acceleration and its relationship with velocity and radius.
  • Investigate scenarios where the angle exceeds 90 degrees and the resulting effects on tension.
  • Learn about the dynamics of pendulum motion and how it relates to the slack condition.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of pendulum systems and circular motion mechanics.

atavistic
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When does a bob attached to a string become slack?When mgcos@ = mv^2/r?
 
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When doing what? You're going to have to provide a bit more information about what the bob on the string is doing?
 
atavistic said:
When does a bob attached to a string become slack?When mgcos@ = mv^2/r?

It depends if you are restricting the angle to be below 90 degrees or if you may go above.
The equation (for theta smaller or equal to 90 degrees) is

T - mg cos theta = m v^2/R

The rope becomes slack if T=0.

what can you say about theta and v in that case?
 

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