Why Does a Smaller Radius Increase Centripetal Force?

AI Thread Summary
A smaller radius of curvature in circular motion requires greater centripetal force due to the relationship between force, acceleration, and radius. With a constant speed, a smaller radius leads to increased acceleration, necessitating a higher centripetal force to maintain the circular path. The discussion highlights that if angular frequency is kept constant, centripetal force would actually increase with radius. The textbook's statement lacks clarity on the assumptions regarding speed or angular frequency. Understanding these principles is crucial for grasping the dynamics of circular motion.
cclixn

Homework Statement



My textbook states that, "Traveling in a circular path with a smaller radius of curvature requires a greater centripetal force".

But my question is, why, and how is that true? I would have assumed at first that if the radius was getting shorter, then the centripetal force would be decreasing, and not increasing.

Homework Equations


[/B]
n/a

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I would have assumed at first that if the radius was getting shorter, then the centripetal force would be decreasing, and not increasing.

So why exactly, and how does having a shorter radius result in greater centripetal force?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Force is proportional to acceleration. Assuming the same speed, a smaller circular orbit must have a larger acceleration. As the orbit grows, it becomes straighter and requires less acceleration.

Edit: If you keep the angular frequency fixed instead of velocity, the force would indeed increase with radius. If the quote is all your textbook gives, then it has failed to specify the underlying assumption.
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top