EXPERIMENT 9

CENTRIPETAL FORCE

Procedure

After checking the scale read zero we weighed each of the stoppers and recorded
it on the data sheet. Next we tied the string to the largest stopper then we adjusted the
string so the radius would be about 900mm. We then practiced twirling the stopper with
the pole to get comfortable with keeping an accurate reading on the scale. Once we had a
consistent reading we started the stop watch, counted 25 revolutions, and stopped the stop
watch. Then we entered the time into the data sheet. Then to get an accurate reading for
the radius of the circle we measured the strings distance while pulling enough tension on
it to achieve the same reading we had during the test, and recorded the measurement.
We then repeated the process with the string at approximately 500mm once for
each stopper. Each time we switched responsibilities between partners so we all had a
good understanding. After completing all horizontal circles we performed one vertical
circle and made observations to report later.

Formula and sample calculations

Part I

Time for 1 revolution=(time 20.71s)/(rotations 25)= 0.83s

Diameter= 2(radius .940m)=1.88m
Circumference= (Diameter 1.88m)3.14159=5.906m
Speed= ((circumference 5.906m)(25))/(time 20.71s)= 7.12m/s
Centripetal force= ((mass .0878kg)(velocity 7.12m/s)^2)/ (radius 0.940m)= 4.7N
Percent Error=
((calculated force 4.7N- experimental force 4N)/ (calculated force 4.7))(100)=14 9%

Problems

1. Doubling the speed would have a more dramatic effect because in the
centripetal force formula velocity is squared which gives it more influence
than mass
2. The mass and radius have an equal effect to the equation in opposite
directions. If the radius is multiplied by 2 it divides force in half. If the radius
is cut in half it multiplies force by 2. When mass is multiplied by 2 it
multiplies the force by 2. When the mass is cut in half it cuts force in half.
3. It is important to keep the radius of the glass tip small because its movement
would increase the size of the radius of the circle proportionately, but we
would not be able to calculate for it.

Comments

This lab went smoothly. We did not have any notable problems. I thought it did
a good job of simply illustrating centripetal force.