Understanding the Horizontal Component of Normal Force in Banked Curves

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the role of the horizontal component of the normal force, specifically N·sinθ, in banked curves. This component acts as the net force and centripetal force directing the vehicle towards the center of curvature. The vertical component of the normal force is countered by gravity, allowing the horizontal component to effectively maintain circular motion. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for analyzing vehicle trajectories on banked curves.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of circular motion dynamics
  • Familiarity with forces acting on vehicles in motion
  • Knowledge of normal force and its components
  • Basic principles of banked curves in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of forces in banked curves using free body diagrams
  • Learn about the effects of friction on banked curves
  • Explore the concept of centripetal acceleration in circular motion
  • Investigate real-world applications of banked curves in road design
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in the mechanics of vehicle motion on banked curves will benefit from this discussion.

marlasca23
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Why during a banked curve is the horizontal component of the normal force considered as the net force and the centripetal force? The horizontal component of Normal force, N·sinθ, is not even ponting towards the centre of the curvature.
 
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marlasca23 said:
The horizontal component of Normal force, N·sinθ, is not even ponting towards the centre of the curvature.
It is pointing toward the center of curvature of the trajectory of the vehicle.

Edit: A geodesic on the surface would curve otherwise, but gravity affects the vehicle's path.
 
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marlasca23 said:
Why during a banked curve is the horizontal component of the normal force considered as the net force and the centripetal force?
Because the vertical component is canceled by gravity.
 
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jbriggs444 said:
It is pointing toward the center of curvature of the trajectory of the vehicle.

Sorry, I don't understand that. Could you explain it more in depth, please?
 
The vehicle travels in a circular path around the banked curve. The circle is in a horizontal plane. The center of the circle is in that plane. The net force on the vehicle is toward that center.

The "center of curvature" of a circular arc is the center of the circle containing that arc.
 
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