Circular Motion and coefficient of static friction

In summary, the conversation discusses how to find the normal force in circular motion, specifically when dealing with an object on a hill. The sample question provided involves a sports car moving at a constant speed on a circular path. The net force on the car is equal to the centripetal force, which is also equal to the normal force minus the car's weight. The equation for centripetal force is crucial in solving this type of problem.
  • #1
sophendo
Circular Motion

I think what I don't understand is how to find the normal force, especially with an object on a hill. My teacher didn't go over it very well so I have only a vague understanding of it. [b(] Here is a sample question that deals with it that I can not seem to figure out how to go about it.

A 1000-kg sports car moving at 20 m/s crosses the rounded top of a hill (radius=100m). Determine the normal force on the car.

I think if I understand how to do this problem, I'll be fine with the others. Thanks for any input!

*edited. Sorry! I posted the wrong problem. haha. This should be the one. Yup, normal force.
 
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  • #2


Because the car moves with constant speed along a circular path, the net force on the object must be the centripetal force. You should have an equation relating the centripetal force. The net force is also equal to the normal force on the car minus its weight.
 
  • #3
Oh... I get it now. Thank you Thank you!
 

1. What is circular motion?

Circular motion is the movement of an object along a circular path, where the object's distance from a fixed point remains constant.

2. How is circular motion related to the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of static friction is a measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces in contact when there is no relative motion between them. In circular motion, this coefficient is important in determining the maximum velocity at which an object can move without slipping or skidding along a curved path.

3. What factors affect the coefficient of static friction in circular motion?

The coefficient of static friction is affected by the nature of the two surfaces in contact, the force pressing the two surfaces together, and the roughness of the surfaces. It also depends on whether the object is in rolling or sliding motion on the curved path.

4. How is the coefficient of static friction calculated in circular motion?

The coefficient of static friction can be calculated by dividing the maximum frictional force that can be applied to an object in circular motion by the normal force that is pressing the object against the curved surface. This can be represented by the equation μs = Fmax / N.

5. What is the significance of the coefficient of static friction in circular motion?

The coefficient of static friction is important in determining the maximum velocity at which an object can move without slipping or skidding along a curved path. It also plays a role in calculating the centripetal force required to keep an object moving in circular motion and the minimum radius of curvature for a given velocity and mass of the object.

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