Centripetal Force on Ferris Wheels

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the maximum speed of a roller-coaster vehicle at point B, given its mass of 510 kg. The key equation used is the centripetal force formula, F-centripetal = mv²/R, where R represents the radius of curvature at point B. It is established that the maximum speed is independent of other speeds mentioned in the problem and is determined solely by the curvature at point B. Newton's second law and the principles of centripetal acceleration are essential for solving this problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal force and acceleration
  • Familiarity with Newton's second law of motion
  • Basic knowledge of roller-coaster dynamics
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's second law in circular motion
  • Learn about centripetal acceleration and its implications in real-world scenarios
  • Explore the effects of radius of curvature on maximum speed in roller-coaster design
  • Investigate the relationship between mass, speed, and gravitational forces in physics problems
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, engineering students, and anyone interested in the mechanics of roller-coasters and circular motion dynamics.

monicaacinom
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Homework Statement





A roller-coaster vehicle has a mass of 510 kg when fully loaded with passengers (Fig. P7.28).
http://www.webassign.net/sf/p7_28.gif
(b) What is the maximum speed the vehicle can have at point B in order for gravity to hold it on the track?


Homework Equations


F-centripetal = mv^2/R
A-centripetal = V^2/R


The Attempt at a Solution


I tried doing mv^2/R = mv^2/R (there was a velocity given in another part of the problem) but that didn't work.
 
Last edited:
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monicaacinom said:
I tried doing mv^2/R = mv^2/R (there was a velocity given in another part of the problem) but that didn't work.
The maximum speed at point B has nothing to do with any other speed given in the problem--it is a property of the curvature at point B. To find the condition for maximum speed, analyze the forces on the coaster at point B and apply Newton's 2nd law and what you know about centripetal acceleration.
 

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