Circular Motion and Force Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the forces acting on a man with a mass of 50.0 kg sitting on a Ferris Wheel with a radius of 30 m, completing one revolution every 20 seconds. The gravitational force acting on the man is determined to be 490 N. The user initially miscalculates the linear velocity as 3769.91 m/s, leading to an erroneous acceleration of 473740.71 m/s². The correct approach involves recognizing that the net force experienced by the man varies based on his position on the Ferris Wheel, influenced by the angle θ.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (FNET = ma)
  • Knowledge of gravitational force calculation (Fg = mg)
  • Familiarity with circular motion concepts, including angular velocity and acceleration
  • Ability to apply trigonometric functions in physics problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study circular motion dynamics, focusing on centripetal acceleration and forces
  • Learn how to derive angular velocity from period and radius
  • Explore the relationship between position and force in circular motion using trigonometric functions
  • Practice solving similar physics problems involving forces on rotating objects
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the forces acting on objects in circular motion, particularly in practical scenarios like amusement park rides.

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Homework Statement



A man sitting on the edge of his seat on a Ferris Wheel has a mass of 50.0 kg. The Ferris Wheel has a radius r=30m and the ferris wheel completes a single revolution every 20 seconds. Find the force between the man and the chair.

Homework Equations



FNET=ma
Fg=mg

\tau=2\pir/v
a=v2/r

The Attempt at a Solution



I found the force of gravity on the man to be 490N. I think the period is 0.05rev/sec so I set up the \tau equation to be 0.05=2\pi(30)/v. I solved for V however and get 3769.91 m/s. It seems like too big of a number. This then gives me a very large acceleration of 473740.71m/s2.
I need to solve for a to plug into my FNET equation in order to find the force on the chair on man.
What am I doing wrong to get these large numbers?
 
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There are two forces that act on the man. The first is the constant, but if you correctly wrote out the question the second force changes directions with the man's position as he rotates around the ferris wheel.

So the force that the man feels as a push from the seat will depend on where he is as he rotates around the wheel. The Force would be a function of \theta
 

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