Although a mass on the end of a string can be whirled around in a horizontal circle, (plane of the mass is horizontal), is it possible for the string itself to be horizontal? Explain and justify your answer.

Question

Although a mass on the end of a string can be whirled around in a horizontal circle, (plane of the mass is horizontal), is it possible for the string itself to be horizontal?  Explain and justify your answer.

I know that it is impossible, because it just is.  The mass always has weight.  But I don't really understand how exactly to answer it.  Help!

drwls · Answer

Yes it is impossible because the mass has weight. The tension force of the string can only operate in the direction of the string. There must be an upward component of the tension force that balances the weight of the mass at the end. Therefore the string cannot be horizontal.

jason · Answer

:P please help on #3.. i don't get it... I tried drawing something and then made an equation.. but... :(