Moderate

A small sphere is attached to a cord and rotates in a vertical circle about point 0. If the average speed of the sphere is increased, the cord is most likely to break at the orientation when the mass is at the

Correct answer: A. Bottom point B

  • A. Bottom point B
  • B. Point C
  • C. Point D
  • D. Top point A

Explanation

The tension in the cord is greatest (mv^2/r) at the bottom of the circle. The tension is due to the combined forces of gravity and centripetal force. At the bottom of the circle, the sphere is moving the fastest, so the centripetal force is greatest. This means that the tension in the cord must also be greatest at this point.

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About Simple Harmonic Motion

Simple harmonic motion is oscillation in which acceleration is directly proportional to displacement and directed toward the equilibrium position. Work includes displacement, velocity, acceleration, phase, period, frequency, amplitude and energy, with applications to springs and simple pendulums. The restoring force and the conditions for SHM distinguish it from general periodic motion.

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