Calculating Roller Coaster Speed at Top of Loop-the-Loop

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the speed of a roller coaster car at the top of a 37 m diameter loop-the-loop, the normal force equals the gravitational force. The relevant equation is n - mg = 0, indicating that the normal force (n) is equal to the weight of the car (mg) at this point. The discussion highlights the need to identify the radial force acting on the car as it moves in a circular path. Participants express uncertainty about the appropriate equations and concepts to apply in solving the problem. Understanding the forces involved is crucial for determining the car's speed at the loop's apex.
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Homework Statement


The normal force equals the magnitude of the gravitational force as a roller coaster car crosses the top of a 37 m diameter loop-the-loop.
What is the car's speed at the top?

Homework Equations


n-mg=0
I don't know what equation to use

The Attempt at a Solution


I honestly don't know what to do...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You have to do something. What's the force called which acts radially inward on a mass going in a circle? And what's the magnitude?
 
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