Solving Circular Motion Problems: Finding Acceleration and Force

In summary, The problem involves a 4.0kg ball attached to a 0.70m string and spun at 2.0m/s. To find the centripetal acceleration and force, use the equation v^2/r and F=ma, respectively. Plug in the given values to solve for the answers.
  • #1
HiddenHope
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Circular Motion HW Help!

Homework Statement


Problem: A 4.0kg ball is attached to 0.70m string and spun at 2.0m/s. Calculate the centripetal acceleration of the ball and the centripetal force on the ball.

Homework Equations


I don't know of any other ones our teacher gave us some worksheets and this is the only one like this !



The Attempt at a Solution


[a][/c]=[v][/2]



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2


Hi. This is a relatively simple problem (hence, I can help you solve it).

First piece of advice, always draw a fbd (free body diagram). It helps to clarify things, and gives you something to visualize.

Here, you know that the centripetal force is a center seeking force, and the velocity is always tangent to the circle.

Did you learn an equation in class today, that relates the two values of velocity and radius, to find the centripetal acceleration?

After you find the acceleration, remember Newton's Second law. F=ma. Once you know acceleration, you can find the centripetal (center seeking) force.

Try it!
 
  • #3


yes but do you know what equation I need to use?
 
  • #4


how do i find acceleration?
 
  • #5


Centripetal (Radial) acceleration = (velocity^2)/radius
Centripetal force = mass*centripetal acceleration

plug the numbers in and you should get the answer.
 

FAQ: Solving Circular Motion Problems: Finding Acceleration and Force

What is circular motion?

Circular motion is the motion of an object along a circular path. It occurs when a force acts on an object, causing it to move in a circular path around a fixed point called the center of rotation.

What is the difference between uniform circular motion and non-uniform circular motion?

Uniform circular motion is when an object moves along a circular path at a constant speed, while non-uniform circular motion is when an object moves along a circular path at varying speeds.

What is the relationship between centripetal force and circular motion?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It acts towards the center of the circle and is directly proportional to the mass and velocity of the object.

How is angular velocity related to linear velocity in circular motion?

Angular velocity is the rotational speed of an object in circular motion, while linear velocity is the speed of the object in a straight line. They are related by the equation v = ωr, where v is the linear velocity, ω is the angular velocity, and r is the radius of the circle.

How do you calculate centripetal acceleration in circular motion?

Centripetal acceleration is the acceleration towards the center of the circle that an object experiences in circular motion. It is calculated by the equation a = v^2/r, where v is the linear velocity and r is the radius of the circle.

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