Topic: Motion in a vertical circle· Work, Energy and Power

A mass m is attached to a thin wire and whirled in a vertical circle. The wire is most likely to break when :

1. the mass is at the highest point

2. the wire is horizontal

3. the mass is at the lowest point

4. inclined at an angle of \(60^\circ\) from vertical

Doubtly Asked 30 Oct 2026 NEET UG 2019 Practice test neet Save WhatsApp Report

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Answer: 3. the mass is at the lowest point

The wire breaks where its tension is largest.

At the lowest point: \(T-mg=\dfrac{mv^2}{r}\), so \(T=mg+\dfrac{mv^2}{r}\). Here the speed is greatest and gravity adds to the required centripetal force.

At the highest point \(T=\dfrac{mv^2}{r}-mg\), the smallest value. At other points the tension lies between these two. So the wire is most likely to break at the lowest point.

Doubtly AI · 30 Oct 2026 AI-generated · not yet verified Report

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A mass m is attached to a thin wire and whirled in a vertical circle. The wire is most likely to break when :

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