Centripetal Forces and Speed Question

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the speed of a bicycle rider on a velodrome with a radius of 50.0 meters and a track angle of 45.0 degrees. The rider's speed is derived using the equations of motion and centripetal force, resulting in a calculated speed of 22.1 m/s. The analysis involves breaking down forces into components and applying trigonometric functions to solve for the normal force and speed. The calculations are confirmed to be correct based on the provided methodology.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal force and motion
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent)
  • Familiarity with Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced applications of centripetal force in different sports contexts
  • Learn about the effects of track angle on speed and stability in cycling
  • Investigate the role of friction in maintaining speed on inclined tracks
  • Study the impact of rider weight and bike design on performance metrics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, cycling coaches, and sports scientists interested in the dynamics of cycling performance and the application of physics principles in sports.

RoyceB
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1. At a velodrome, bicycle riders race around the inside of a course shaped like a cup whose angle increases as the rider moves up the side. At one point the radius of the path is 50.0m and the track makes an angle of 45.0 degrees with the horizontal. If a rider is perpendicular to the track at this point, what is the speed of the rider?

2.
mv2 / r = Fnx
ma = Fny - Fg

3. So my attempt was to break it into components and solve for Fn in the y and sub that into the x.

∑Fy = Fny - Fg
ma = cosθ(Fn) - Fg
0 = cosθ(Fn) - mg
mg = cosθ(Fn)
mg/cosθ = Fn

Now with that I attempted plugging that into the x direction.∑Fx = Fnx
mv2 / r = sinθFn
mv2 / r = (sinθmg) / cosθ
mv2 / r = tanθmg
v2 / 50.0m = tan45°x9.81m/s2
v = 22.1m/s

I was just wondering if someone can proof read and make sure that this is correct or incorrect and why.
 
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