A ball is attached to a string and swung in a vertical circle. The ball is swung at a faster and faster rate, at what point in the path is the string most likely to break? Explain why.

College Physics
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305952300
Author:Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Publisher:Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Chapter1: Units, Trigonometry. And Vectors
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1CQ: Estimate the order of magnitude of the length, in meters, of each of the following; (a) a mouse, (b)...
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**Question:**

A ball is attached to a string and swung in a vertical circle. The ball is swung at a faster and faster rate; at what point in the path is the string most likely to break? Explain why.

**Explanation:**

As the ball is swung in a vertical circle, the tension in the string varies. The tension is greatest at the bottom of the circle because the ball's weight and the centripetal force required to keep it moving in a circle both act in the same direction, increasing the overall force on the string. As the speed increases, the centripetal force needed also increases, making the point at the bottom of the circle the most likely place for the string to break.
Transcribed Image Text:**Question:** A ball is attached to a string and swung in a vertical circle. The ball is swung at a faster and faster rate; at what point in the path is the string most likely to break? Explain why. **Explanation:** As the ball is swung in a vertical circle, the tension in the string varies. The tension is greatest at the bottom of the circle because the ball's weight and the centripetal force required to keep it moving in a circle both act in the same direction, increasing the overall force on the string. As the speed increases, the centripetal force needed also increases, making the point at the bottom of the circle the most likely place for the string to break.
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