Friction problem with banked curve given static friction coefficient

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the maximum speed a 1200 kg rubber-tired car can maintain on a banked curve with a radius of 80 meters and an incline of 19 degrees, given a static friction coefficient of 1.0. The user initially calculated a speed of 31.6 m/s, while the professor indicated the correct answer is 40.1 m/s. The user outlines their approach, which involves determining the normal force and friction force, but expresses confusion about the calculations and whether they are conceptually sound. Participants suggest a more systematic analysis of vertical and horizontal force components to derive the correct equations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly accounting for forces acting on the car in both dimensions to solve the problem accurately.
zenith12
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Homework Statement



What is the maximum speed with which a 1200 rubber-tired car can take around a banked curve with radius of 80.0 meters an angle of 19.0 degrees? (static friction coefficient is 1.0)


Homework Equations


Fs=mu*F(normal)
F(netxdirection)/m=acceleration
acceleration=velocity2/radius


The Attempt at a Solution


I tried answering this problem several times and I failed at each; although I swear my first answer was correct (31.6 m/s). My professor's answer was 40.1 m/s and I have no idea how he got that.

Please help...
 
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Show how you solved it. What are your vertical and horizontal force equations?
 
Hey...sorry for being so short. I was in a hurry to just get the question asked. I spent all day on homework and no time to fully explain.

Here are my notes on this problem:

Known:
incline angle=19.0 degrees
Radius of turn=80.0 m
Mass of car=1200 kg
mu(s) tire on cement road=1.0

Forces:
Normal
Weight
Friction

Find:
Max velocity without slipping on cement

Steps:
1. Find Friction force by finding the Normal force for the y-axis by adding up the forces in the y direction. This was done by F=ma. Acceleration=zero, so solved for Normal.
2. Enter Normal in Friction equation (F=mu*N) to get Friction force.
3. Enter Friction force in F(netx)=ma for x-axis to solve for acceleration in the x direction which is also the radial/centripetal direction btw.
4. Use a=v^2/r to find the velocity.

Maybe this velocity is not the maximum? Am I missing something conceptual?
 
zenith12 said:
1. Find Friction force by finding the Normal force for the y-axis by adding up the forces in the y direction. This was done by F=ma. Acceleration=zero, so solved for Normal.
Careful! The acceleration is horizontal, so you cannot say that the acceleration is zero normal to the incline.

Instead, analyze vertical and horizontal force components. Set up two equations and solve them together.
 
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