Solving Banking Problems in Circular Motion - Tips and Techniques for Beginners

[starchaaser]

Hi, first post here :)
sorry if this has been asked before but I couldn't find anything.

I'm doing some problems involving banking turns in uniform circular motion.

I'm slightly confused because up until know I have been decomposing the force due to gravity to solve problems with inclines... now here, the answer shows us decomposing the normal vector.

Why is this and how can I know which vector to decompose on future problems? Thanks for the replies

 

[fatra2]

Depends on the problem. The idea is to do many problems, to get the feeling of it. There is no cooking recipes. You need to practice.

Cheers

 

[kerimek]

.Hello, thank you for sharing your question with us. I can provide some insights on solving banking problems in circular motion.

Firstly, it is important to understand the concept of circular motion and the forces involved. In circular motion, an object moves in a circular path at a constant speed. This requires a centripetal force, which is directed towards the center of the circle, to keep the object moving in a curved path. In the case of banking turns, the force of gravity also plays a role in keeping the object on the curved path.

Now, to your question about decomposing vectors. In problems involving inclines, we decompose the force of gravity into its components parallel and perpendicular to the incline to solve for the net force. Similarly, in banking turns, we decompose the normal force into its components parallel and perpendicular to the banked surface. This is because the normal force acts perpendicular to the surface, while the centripetal force acts parallel to the surface.

To know which vector to decompose, it is important to identify the forces acting on the object and their direction. In the case of banking turns, the normal force and the centripetal force are the main forces involved. Therefore, we decompose the normal force to solve for the net force acting on the object in the direction of motion.

I hope this helps clarify your confusion. Remember, in circular motion problems, it is important to analyze the forces involved and their direction in order to solve them accurately. Best of luck with your future problems!