Understanding the Concepts
* Centripetal Force: The force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It always points towards the center of the circle.
* Centripetal Acceleration: The acceleration towards the center of the circle, caused by the centripetal force.
Formula
The formula for centripetal force is:
F = (m * v^2) / r
where:
* F = centripetal force (in Newtons)
* m = mass of the object (in kilograms)
* v = velocity of the object (in meters per second)
* r = radius of the circular path (in meters)
Calculations
1. Convert units:
* Mass (m): 250 g = 0.25 kg
* Radius (r): 50 cm = 0.5 m
2. Plug the values into the formula:
F = (0.25 kg * (4 m/s)^2) / 0.5 m
3. Calculate:
F = (0.25 kg * 16 m^2/s^2) / 0.5 m
F = 8 N
Answer
The centripetal force acting on the yo-yo is 8 Newtons.
