Centrifugal force spinning Basketball

In summary, the conversation discussed the centrifugal force on water droplets on a spinning basketball at different speeds. It was suggested that the stippled surface of the ball holds the droplets in place due to surface roughness and attraction. The droplets near the equator or the pole are not expected to move due to the force of gravity. To break free from the surface, the rotation rate would need to be greater than 78 RPM. The purpose of the experiment was not stated.
  • #1
nick200000
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Hi, Looking for Centrifugal force on water droplets on my spinning Basketball at 33 RPM, 45 RPM and 78 RPM
 
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Welcome to PF.

It appears the stippled surface of the ball holds the droplets in position, so they do not move during rotation. Maybe drops stick to the worn tip of the bump or to contamination of the surface between bumps. That surface roughness, and attraction, is clearly strong enough to counter gravity.

A droplet near the equator or the pole will not be expected to migrate across the surface when the ball is spun. Near the equator, the force would tend to lift the droplet off the surface. But the rate of rotation, required to break free, would need to be greater than 78 RPM before overcoming the surface tension and the bond with the ball material.

It might help if we knew what you were trying to disprove with the experiment.
 
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FAQ: Centrifugal force spinning Basketball

What is centrifugal force?

Centrifugal force is the apparent outward force that is experienced by an object when it is moving in a circular path. It is not a real force, but rather a result of the object's inertia trying to keep it moving in a straight line.

How does centrifugal force affect a spinning basketball?

When a basketball is spun, it experiences centrifugal force which causes it to move away from the center of rotation. This is why a spinning basketball will curve or bend in the direction of its spin.

What factors affect the strength of centrifugal force on a spinning basketball?

The strength of centrifugal force on a spinning basketball is affected by the speed of rotation, the mass of the basketball, and the distance from the center of rotation. The faster the spin, the greater the force. The heavier the basketball, the stronger the force. And the farther the basketball is from the center of rotation, the stronger the force.

How does centrifugal force contribute to the stability of a spinning basketball?

Centrifugal force helps to stabilize a spinning basketball by exerting an outward force that counteracts the inward force of gravity. This allows the basketball to maintain its circular motion without falling or wobbling.

Can centrifugal force be used to perform tricks with a spinning basketball?

Yes, centrifugal force can be used to perform various tricks with a spinning basketball, such as spinning it on a finger or bouncing it off different surfaces. These tricks rely on the balance between centrifugal force and gravity to keep the basketball in motion and under control.

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