A string under a tension of 53.9 N is used to whirl a rock in a horizontal circle of radius 2.59 m at a speed of 21.8 m/s. The string is pulled in and the speed of the rock increases. When the string is 1.23 m long and the speed of the rock is 54.8 m/s, the string breaks. What is the breaking strength (in newtons) of the string

The breaking strength of the string is 717.19 N

Explanation:

Given;

initial tension on the string, T₁ = 53.9 N

initial radius of the string, r₁ = 2.59 m

initial speed of the rock, v₁ = 21.8 m/s

final radius of the string, r₂ = 1.23 m

final speed of the rock, v₂ = 54.8 m/s

the final tension on the string = breaking strength, T₂ = ?

Apply centripetal force equation due to inward motion;

Therefore, the breaking strength of the string is 717.19 N