Is Centripetal Acceleration Noticeable When Running in a Circle?

  • Thread starter Thread starter chimpfunkz
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Acceleration
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the perceptibility of centripetal acceleration while running in a circle with a diameter of 12 meters at a speed of 4.5 m/s. The calculated centripetal acceleration is 1.7 m/s², derived from the formula a = v²/r. Participants confirm that this acceleration is indeed perceptible, as it creates a force that can be felt pushing the runner outward, similar to the sensation experienced when navigating a roundabout.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal acceleration and its formula (a = v²/r)
  • Basic knowledge of circular motion dynamics
  • Familiarity with the concept of perceptibility in physics
  • Ability to interpret physical sensations related to motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of centripetal acceleration on the human body during circular motion
  • Explore real-world applications of centripetal acceleration in vehicles and amusement park rides
  • Learn about the relationship between speed, radius, and centripetal force
  • Study the differences between linear and angular acceleration in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those interested in dynamics and circular motion, as well as educators seeking to explain the concept of centripetal acceleration and its perceptibility in practical scenarios.

chimpfunkz
Messages
10
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


You are running at 4.5 m/s around a circle 12m in diameter. Is the centripetal acceleration perceptible?


Homework Equations


a=v^2/r


The Attempt at a Solution


I know that the centripetal acceleration is 1.7m/s^2 (4.5^2/12). What I don't know is what it means for centripetal acceleration to be perceptible. Can anyone help me/ explain what this means?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Ey yo, waddap.

I'm not a native English speaker, and I'm learning physics in my own language, so the question is unfamiliar to me, BUT I think I can help.

Perceptible.. To be perceived, experienced, felt.

Do you feel the acceleration? Yeah, you sure do. The acceleration vector in circle motion, as long as the orbital acceleration is constant, which it is in your case, points towards the center of the circle. So the object (you) will feel it pushing you the other way, I.E. 180 degrees from the center of the circle. Much as when you're driving in a roundabout. Yeah, the centripetal acceleration is perceptible.

That's my interpretation of the question.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K