How fast is this roller coaster?

In summary: So you can find the normal force n by using the equation n = C_f + mg.In summary, the roller coaster has a total potential energy of 85750 joules at point A and 41160 joules at point B, with a difference of 44590 joules being converted to kinetic energy. The roller coaster is moving at a speed of 16 m/s at point B, and the normal force at point B can be calculated using the equation n = C_f + mg, where C_f is the centripetal force and mg is the weight.
  • #1
Bottomsouth
27
0

Homework Statement


A 350kg roller coaster starts from rest at point A and slides down the frictionless loop-the-loop shown in the accompanying figure.

http://session.masteringphysics.com/problemAsset/1027487/5/1027487.jpg
1. How fast is this roller coaster moving at point B?
2. How hard does it press against the track at point B?

Homework Equations


1. it has potential energy at A = mgh =350*9.8*25= 85750 joules
at B it has PE = 350*9.8*12=41160 joules

the difference has been changed to kinetic energy = 1/2 mv^2

1/2 mv^2 =
1/2 (350)v^2 =85750 - 41160
=16 m/s this is good.

The Attempt at a Solution



2. F = mv^2/R = 350*16^2/6 = 14933.3

It says this isn't the answer.
 
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  • #2
Bottomsouth said:

The Attempt at a Solution



2. F = mv^2/R = 350*16^2/6 = 14933.3

It says this isn't the answer.

There is your problem, the centripetal force,mv2/r is the resultant force. Normal reaction acts upwards,the weight acts downwards, the resultant of these two is the centripetal force (which you can calculate and you can also calculate the weight ,mg)
 
  • #3
How do I find normal force?

n-mg = C_f?

n - 350(9.81) = C_f

what is n?
 
  • #4
Bottomsouth said:
How do I find normal force?

n-mg = C_f?

n - 350(9.81) = C_f

what is n?

Cf is the centripetal force mv^2/r, which you can easily find since you have v at point B, mass,m and the radius r.
 

1. How is the speed of a roller coaster measured?

The speed of a roller coaster is measured using a device called a speedometer, which uses sensors and a timer to calculate the speed at different points on the track. This data is then averaged to determine the overall speed of the roller coaster.

2. How fast do roller coasters typically go?

The speed of a roller coaster can vary greatly depending on the design and type of coaster. On average, roller coasters can reach speeds anywhere from 50 to 100 miles per hour.

3. What factors can affect the speed of a roller coaster?

The speed of a roller coaster can be affected by several factors, including the design and layout of the track, the weight and number of riders, and external forces such as wind and friction. The speed can also be controlled by the operator and adjusted for safety reasons.

4. Can a roller coaster go faster than its designed speed?

No, roller coasters are designed with specific safety limits in mind and are not meant to go faster than their designed speed. Going faster can put excessive strain on the track and the riders, and can be dangerous.

5. How does the speed of a roller coaster affect the ride experience?

The speed of a roller coaster can greatly impact the ride experience. Higher speeds can create a more intense and thrilling experience, while slower speeds can provide a more gentle and relaxing ride. The design and layout of the track also play a role in how the speed affects the overall ride experience.

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