Angular Velocity; Given Coefficient of Friction and Radius

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The discussion centers on calculating the minimum angular velocity required to keep riders pressed against the wall of a rotating cylinder, given a coefficient of friction of 0.5 and a radius of 5m. The key equations involve the relationship between angular velocity, linear velocity, and the forces acting on the riders, specifically friction and gravity. The calculated answer of 1.25 radians per second is debated, with participants discussing the necessary conditions for vertical equilibrium and the role of friction in maintaining the riders' position. The importance of understanding the forces, including the normal force and centripetal force, is emphasized to arrive at the correct solution. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the need for a clear application of physics principles to solve the problem accurately.
Aljazera
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Homework Statement



Consider the carnival ride in which the riders stand against the wall
inside a large cylinder. As the cylinder rotates, the floor of the cylinder
drops and the passengers are pressed against the wall by the centrifugal
force. Assuming that the coefficient of friction between a rider and the
cylinder wall is 0.5 and that the radius of the cylinder is 5m, what is
the minimum angular velocity and the corresponding linear velocity of
the cylinder that will hold the rider firmly against the wall?


Homework Equations



theta = 2pie*r/r = 2pie?

angular velocity = w/t

linear velocity = rw


The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to solve for w, being as that is dtheta over delta t; but time was not given so i just assumed one second.

The answer is 1.25 rads per second
 
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In your free body diagram, the Normal force=Centripetal force.

What forces act on the body vertically?
 
Gravity
 
Aljazera said:
Gravity

Then what should the minimum resultant force between weight and the other force acting?


Also is 1.25 rad/s the answer you got or the answer to the problem?
 
rock.freak667 said:
Then what should the minimum resultant force between weight and the other force acting?


Also is 1.25 rad/s the answer you got or the answer to the problem?

With all due respect, what does knowing the resultant force between weight and other forces have to do with it?

1.25 rad/s is the answer to the problem, i just don't know how to arrive to it.
 
Aljazera said:
With all due respect, what does knowing the resultant force between weight and other forces have to do with it?

1.25 rad/s is the answer to the problem, i just don't know how to arrive to it.

Well I don't think you will get 1.25 rad/s but this is how to go about it.

For no motion in the vertical direction (you don't want the people to go flying out of the cylinder)

Friction \geq Weight

Do you happen to have an expression for Friction?
 
Mu and a related equation for Mu ( Vmax = \sqrt{}Mu x gravity x Radius
 
Aljazera said:
Mu and a related equation for Mu ( Vmax = \sqrt{}Mu x gravity x Radius

Well if you went through the reasoning you'd arrive at that equation.


Friction=uN

u= coefficient of friction

N= Normal reaction = Centripetal force in this case.
 

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