Centripetal Acceleration in Circular Motion (CENCO)

PHY 200 & 230

The purpose of this experiment is to measure the centripetal force (Fc) on an object moving in a circle at a constant speed and to see how this force is proportional to the square of the radius. A centripetal force apparatus will be used.

Equipment

Notes

Use the centripetal force apparatus found on shelves 11, 17, and 23. The string must be .5m long max when taut. Make sure the correct rods are being used for the setup of this lab. When setting up the apparatus, the string must be tied to a paper clip. This paper clip is then hooked to the bob on the apparatus. There is a bag with the label "Centripetal Force (CENCO) strings" that has the strings tied to the paper clips. This bag is found with the other centripetal force apparatus accessories. Make sure apparatus is set to smallest radius. When hanging freely, slide top bar to align bob with pointer and choose good distance from center to counterweight to prevent wobble. Make sure pulley is straight and tight. Ensure spring and hanger string are horizontal when bob pulled to pointer; this can be adjusted by wrapping/unwrapping string holding bob. Align hook that hangs bob with the spring and paperclip, facing inward. Remember to level base if necessary.

Make sure that the room has plenty of paper and that each table has a ruler and a meter stick.