Discover Centripetal Force Kit
Model No. ME-9837
4
®
Introduction
The Discover Centripetal Force Kit contains the materials necessary to
perform the classical centripetal force lab similar to the first example
listed in the table below. In addition, the Discover Centripetal Force
Kit can be used in conjunction with Force Sensors or Newton Spring
Scales.
Centripetal Force is an often misunderstood physical concept. Among
other things, the popular, yet, misused word "centrifugal" contributes
to students' misconceptions. An object moving in uniform circular
motion experiences a net inward-pointing force, called the centripetal
force. It is important for students to identify the agent for each force
that contributes to the centripetal force (net force) for an object moving
in uniform circular motion.
The table below gives examples of the centripetal force for certain
occurrences:
Included with the Discover Centripetal Force Kit are rubber stoppers
of widely varying masses. Convenient blue ties are provided to attach
the stoppers easily to the bright, sturdy string. In addition, (2) two
tubes are included to use for multiple lab groups. The tubes are
chamfered to decrease friction on the string.
Situation
Centripetal Force
An object twirled in a horizontal
circle.
Tension from the string.
Car driving in a circle.
Static friction on the tires directed
toward the center.
A satellite.
Force due to gravity.
A “centrifuge.”
The normal force from the wall of the
“centrifuge.”
