Acceleration for a curved trajectory

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    Acceleration Trajectory
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding a specific equation related to acceleration for a curved trajectory, as presented in the Feynman Lectures on Physics. Participants express confusion regarding the derivation and implications of the equation \(\Delta v_\perp = v\,\Delta\theta\), particularly in the context of small angles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how the equation \(\Delta v_\perp = v\,\Delta\theta\) is derived, indicating a lack of understanding of its significance.
  • Another participant expresses similar confusion and notes they do not have access to the Feynman Lectures.
  • A third participant reiterates the lack of understanding and suggests that the lectures are available online.
  • A later reply provides a link to the relevant section of the Feynman Lectures and mentions that the approximation \(\sin\Delta\theta \simeq \Delta\theta\) is applicable for small angles, suggesting that this fact is crucial for understanding the equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express confusion about the equation and its derivation, with no consensus on its understanding or application. Multiple viewpoints regarding the clarity of the material remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a reliance on specific definitions and assumptions related to small angle approximations, which may not be fully articulated by participants.

Jazzyrohan
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In feynman lectures on physics volume 1
Excerpt 11-6
I don't get how the equation \begin{equation*} \Delta v_\perp=v\,\Delta\theta \end{equation*} is found.
 
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Me neither, I don't have a copy of the Feynman lectures and don't have a clou what this all means.
 
haushofer said:
Me neither, I don't have a copy of the Feynman lectures and don't have a clou what this all means.
They are available online.
 
It would be helpful to link, at least to section 11-6 even if you can't link to the equation: http://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/I_11.html#Ch11-S6

##\sin\Delta\theta\simeq\Delta\theta## if ##\Delta\theta<<1##, is the relevant fact, I think. Then the result follows from figure 11-8.
 
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