Block moving on a frictionless loop

In summary, the question is asking for the minimum height from which a block on a frictionless slide must be released in order to complete a loop without leaving the surface of the slide. The dimensions of the block are assumed to be small compared to the radius of the loop and there is no energy associated with rotational motion of the block. The hint suggests considering the minimum speed of the block at the top of the loop in order to remain in contact with the surface. The solution may involve a force acting against gravity, but it is not necessary if the object is accelerating vertically downward at the top of the loop.
  • #1
phosgene
146
1

Homework Statement



A block moves on the frictionless slide shown in the diagram. What is the minimum height from which the block can be released if it is to complete the loop without leaving the surface of the slide? (Assume that the dimensions of the block are small compared to R, and that there is no energy associated with rotational motion of the block.) Hint: Think about the minimum speed of the block at the top of the loop if it is to remain in contact with the surface.

physicsdiagram-1.png


Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea at all! I mean, for the block to stay in contact with the top of the loop, it would need some kind of force to counteract gravity. Even if it was moving really fast, wouldn't the slightest influence of gravity pull it away from the loop? But I can't think of any force acting against gravity. Well, I'm pretty sure that this reasoning is wrong, because I've seen something like this done in real life. So I'm totally stuck..
 
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  • #2
haven't you ever seen a rollercoaster go around a loopdeloop? Or swinging water over your head in a bucket and it not coming out? What force is applied to something that is moving in a circle?
 
  • #3
phosgene said:
But I can't think of any force acting against gravity.
There does not necessarily have to be a force acting against gravity at the top of the loop if the object is accelerating vertically downward at that point. Is it?
 

FAQ: Block moving on a frictionless loop

1. What is the concept of "block moving on a frictionless loop"?

The concept of "block moving on a frictionless loop" refers to a theoretical scenario where a block is placed on a looped track with no friction present. This means that the block will continue to move around the loop without slowing down or coming to a stop.

2. Can a block really move on a frictionless loop?

In reality, it is impossible to create a truly frictionless environment. However, in theoretical physics, frictionless surfaces and loops are often used as simplifications to understand the principles of motion and energy.

3. How does the block move on a frictionless loop without any external force?

In a frictionless environment, the block will continue to move due to its inertia. Inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion. Since there is no friction to slow it down, the block will continue to move with a constant velocity around the loop.

4. What factors affect the block's movement on a frictionless loop?

The block's velocity, mass, and the radius of the loop are the main factors that affect its movement on a frictionless loop. The block's velocity determines the speed at which it moves around the loop, while its mass affects the amount of force needed to change its direction. The radius of the loop also plays a role in the block's movement, as a smaller radius will require a larger force to keep the block moving in a circular path.

5. How is the concept of "block moving on a frictionless loop" relevant in the real world?

The concept of a frictionless environment is often used in theoretical physics to study the principles of motion and energy. While it is not possible to create a completely frictionless environment in the real world, understanding this concept can help scientists and engineers design more efficient systems and machines that minimize the effects of friction.

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