Airplane flying in a circle

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving an airplane flying in a horizontal circle and a pilot wanting to determine the minimum radius of the circular path and the net centripetal force exerted on him. The first problem is solved by using the formula A = v^2/R and the second problem is solved by using the formula Fc = m (V^2/R) with the given values of speed and mass. The final answer for the centripetal force is 6824.78 N.
  • #1
kimikims
36
0
I tried workin this problem out.. and it's not working! :frown:

---
An airplane is flying in a horizontal circle at a
speed of 48.1 m/s. The 94.1 kg pilot does not
want his radial acceleration to exceed 7:.39 g.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s^2

1) What is the minimum radius of the circular
path? Answer in units of m.

7.39g (9.8m/s^2) = 72.422 m/s^2
do I need to square root 72.422??



2) At this radius, what is the net centripetal force
exerted on the pilot by the seat belts,
the friction between him and the seat, and so
forth? Answer in units of N.

N = mg + m (V^2/m)

is this the right formula?? what would m and v be??
 
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  • #2
Is this right??

Speed = 48.1 m/s
g = 9.8 m/s^2

Problem #1

7.39 g (9.8 m/s^2) = A
A = 72.422

R = V^2 / A
R = (48.1 m/s)^2 / 72.422
R = 31.94

Problem #2

F = mV^2 / R
What's m??
F = (?)m x (4.8)^2 / 31.94
 
  • #3
Remember that A(centripital) = v^2 / R...

...so your answer to problem 1 looks correct.

On problem 2, how did you go from a velocity of 48.1 m/s to that of 4.8 m/s? The mass would just be the pilots mass...because its asking for the centripital force acting on the pilot.
 
  • #4
thermodynamicaldude said:
Remember that A(centripital) = v^2 / R...

...so your answer to problem 1 looks correct.

On problem 2, how did you go from a velocity of 48.1 m/s to that of 4.8 m/s? The mass would just be the pilots mass...because its asking for the centripital force acting on the pilot.


Sorry I meant 48.1 m/s not 4.8 m/s...

So it would be:

Fc = m (V^2/R)
Fc = 94.1 [(48.1)^2 m/s / 31.9)

Fc = 6824.78 N?
 
  • #5
Looks good. :-D
 
  • #6
thermodynamicaldude said:
Looks good. :-D


Thank you! :biggrin:
 

What causes an airplane to fly in a circle?

An airplane flying in a circle is caused by the combination of the aircraft's aerodynamics and the pilot's control inputs. The wings of an airplane are designed to generate lift, which allows the aircraft to stay in the air. By banking the airplane and using the rudder, the pilot can control the direction and angle of the lift, causing the airplane to fly in a circular path.

What is the difference between a circle and a turn in an airplane?

A circle and a turn in an airplane may seem similar, but there is a key difference. A turn is a change in direction while maintaining a constant altitude, whereas a circle is a constant change in direction and altitude. In a turn, the airplane's wings are banked at a specific angle, while in a circle the wings are continuously changing their angle to maintain a circular path.

Why do airplanes fly in circles during air shows?

Airplanes fly in circles during air shows to showcase their maneuverability and precision. Flying in circles allows the pilot to perform various aerobatic maneuvers, such as loops, rolls, and spins, in front of the audience. It also provides a visually appealing display of the aircraft's capabilities.

Can an airplane fly in a perfect circle?

Technically, an airplane cannot fly in a perfect circle due to various factors such as wind, turbulence, and the limitations of the aircraft's design. However, skilled pilots can perform maneuvers that appear to be a perfect circle to the human eye.

What are the risks of flying in a circle?

Flying in circles can be risky if not done correctly. The airplane must maintain a minimum airspeed to generate enough lift and avoid stalling. The pilot must also be aware of their altitude and surroundings to avoid obstacles and other aircraft. Additionally, flying in circles for an extended period can cause fatigue in the pilot, leading to a loss of control of the aircraft.

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