®
ME-9837A
D i s c o v e r C e n t r i p e t a l F o r c e K i t
7
012-15873A
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)
2
r
T
---------
=
