Is the centripetal force a projection of tension?

In summary, the conversation discussed the concept of centripetal force and how it relates to a pendulum attached to a spinning object. It was mentioned that the net force in this scenario is a combination of tension and gravitational force, with the horizontal component of tension being the centripetal force.
  • #1
Smouk
7
1
Well, this might be the stupidest question ever, but whatever. I was just thinking about a problem where a pendulum is attached to something that spins around itself (image below) and thought that maybe Centripetal Force might be a projection of tension on a vector that is perpendicular to ω.

b172b4b81c7dc65027308c86e2c4a1b4.png


I know, this might be one of the stupidest things to say, but I don't really know that much so please be nice with me, thanks to everyone.
 
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  • #2
Take the vector sum of the tension and the gravitational force. That gives you the net force. Since the net force has a direction that's towards the center, we call it the centripetal force.
 
  • #3
Smouk said:
Centripetal Force might be a projection of tension on a vector that is perpendicular to ω.

Yes, it's the horizontal component of the tension. (The vertical component of the tension is equal but opposite to the gravitational force. Hence the net force is horizontal and towards the center.)
 
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FAQ: Is the centripetal force a projection of tension?

1. What is centripetal force?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It is always directed towards the center of the circle and is responsible for continuously changing the object's direction.

2. How is centripetal force related to tension?

The centripetal force is not a projection of tension. Tension is a type of force that is exerted by a string or rope when it is pulled tight. However, in certain situations, such as when a string is attached to an object moving in a circular path, tension may act as the centripetal force.

3. Can centripetal force exist without tension?

Yes, centripetal force can exist without tension. In cases where an object is moving in a circular path without any external forces acting on it, such as a planet orbiting the sun, the centripetal force is provided by gravity. In this case, there is no tension involved.

4. How is the direction of centripetal force determined?

The direction of centripetal force is always towards the center of the circle. This is because the force is responsible for changing the direction of the object towards the center, keeping it in a circular path.

5. What is the difference between centripetal force and centrifugal force?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, while centrifugal force is a fictitious force that appears to push objects away from the center of a circular path. Centrifugal force is not a real force, but rather an apparent force that arises from the object's inertia.

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