Calculating Tension in Circular Motion

In summary, a whirlygig involves hanging a mass through a tube and spinning another mass around at a specific speed. To find the tension force on the second mass, we can use the equation T = mxg, assuming that the first mass is not moving up or down.
  • #1
Anon2459

Homework Statement


A whirlygig is made by hanging a mass, m1 = 324.0 g, through a tube and then spinning another mass, m2 = 111.0 g around so that it forms a circle. When this happens the string makes a small angle with the horizontal as shown in the diagram. If this is done at a specific speed then m1 does not move up or down, for this question assume than m2 is moving at this speed. Also assume that there is no friction between the string and the tube.

What is the magnitude of the tension force acting on mass m2?

Homework Equations



T = mxa + mxg

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Since it says that at this speed, m 1 will not move up or down, I'm assuming a is zero

therefore,

T = 0.324 x 9.8

Correct or incorrect?
 
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  • #2
Yes, that sounds right.
 

Related to Calculating Tension in Circular Motion

What is the formula for calculating tension in circular motion?

The formula for calculating tension in circular motion is T = m * v^2 / r, where T is the tension, m is the mass of the object, v is the velocity, and r is the radius of the circular path.

What is tension in circular motion?

Tension in circular motion is the force that is exerted by a string, rope, or any other flexible object that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It is directed towards the center of the circle and is responsible for maintaining the object's circular motion.

How does tension affect circular motion?

Tension is necessary for circular motion as it is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. If the tension is too low, the object will slow down and eventually stop moving in a circular path. If the tension is too high, the object will accelerate and may even break free from the circular path.

Can tension in circular motion be greater than the weight of the object?

Yes, tension in circular motion can be greater than the weight of the object. This is because tension is a force that is applied by an external object, while weight is a force that is exerted by gravity. As long as the tension is strong enough to maintain the circular motion, it can be greater than the weight of the object.

What is the relationship between tension and velocity in circular motion?

The relationship between tension and velocity in circular motion is inverse. This means that as the velocity increases, the tension decreases, and vice versa. This is because the formula for calculating tension includes velocity in the numerator, so as velocity increases, tension decreases and vice versa.

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