PASCO ME-9837 Discover Centripetal Force Kit - Manual (Page 7)

®
Model No. ME-9837 Discover Centripetal Force Kit
7
For each data point collected, students must:
• Select and mark a predetermined radius.
• Select and attach predetermined hanging and swinging masses.
• Adjust the "swing speed" until the predetermined radius is attained.
• Time ten (10) full rotations.
Calculate the Linear Velocity
To determine the linear velocity of the spinning mass, measure the
period (T) and the radius (r). To find the period, divide the time of the
10 full rotations by 10. To calculate the linear velocity (v) use the
following equation:
In order to maintain a constant radius, mark the string with a pen.
Practice spinning the mass and observing the mark on the string.
Calculate the Force
The centripetal force on the spinning mass is roughly equal to the
weight of the hanging mass. Measure the hanging mass and use this
value to calculate the centripetal force.
radius (m) m
h
(kg) m
s
(kg) V (m/s)
ν 2
π
r
T
--------- =