How Does a Heavy Ball Hanging by a Thread Demonstrate Gravity and Tension?

In summary, the weight of the ball affects the tension on the thread as the thread must support the weight of the ball. The thread does not break because it is designed to withstand a certain amount of tension. However, the thread may stretch over time with the constant tension from the heavy ball, potentially affecting its ability to support the weight. Gravity plays a role in creating tension on the thread, as it is what causes the heavy ball to pull down. The length of the thread can also affect the stability of the heavy ball hanging, with a shorter thread being more stable than a longer one.
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Kaxa2000
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  • #2
Say the ball weighs 20 lbs and both strings are rated at 25 lbs max. Visualize what is going on with the upper string as you start apply downward force of say 5 lbs.
 
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I would like to remind everyone that the concept of a heavy ball hanging by a thread has been used in physics experiments to demonstrate the principles of gravity and tension. This setup allows us to observe the effects of these forces on the ball and the thread. It is important to note that the thread must be strong enough to support the weight of the ball, otherwise it will break and the ball will fall. This simple yet effective experiment serves as a visual representation of the laws of physics, and can be used to teach students about these fundamental concepts.
 

FAQ: How Does a Heavy Ball Hanging by a Thread Demonstrate Gravity and Tension?

How does the weight of the ball affect the tension on the thread?

The weight of the ball directly affects the tension on the thread as the thread must support the weight of the ball. The heavier the ball, the greater the tension on the thread.

Why does the thread not break when the heavy ball is hanging?

The thread does not break because it is designed to withstand a certain amount of tension or weight. As long as the weight of the ball does not exceed this limit, the thread will not break.

Will the thread stretch over time with the heavy ball hanging?

Yes, the thread may stretch over time due to the constant tension from the heavy ball. This can cause the thread to become longer and thinner, potentially affecting its ability to support the weight of the ball.

How does gravity play a role in the hanging heavy ball experiment?

Gravity is what causes the heavy ball to pull down on the thread, creating tension. Without the force of gravity, the ball would not be able to hang from the thread.

Can the length of the thread affect the stability of the heavy ball hanging?

Yes, the length of the thread can affect the stability of the heavy ball hanging. A shorter thread will have less give and may be more stable, while a longer thread may have more movement and be less stable.

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