Critical Point of Wire Breakage in Vertical Circle – Rankers Physics

Vertical Circular Motion: Practice Problem & Solution

A mass $m$ is attached to a thin wire and whirled in a vertical circle. The wire is most likely to break when: (2019)
The mass is at the highest point
The wire is horizontal
The mass is at the lowest point
Inclined at an angle of $60^\circ$ from vertical

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Vertical Circular Motion. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Tension in the string/wire is maximum at the lowest point of the vertical circle ($T = mg + \frac{mv^2}{r}$), making it most likely to break there.

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Similar Practice Questions

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1. Assertion (A): In uniform circular motion, angular acceleration is zero. Reason (R): In uniform circular motion, acceleration is constant.  
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