Circular Motion of a car on a track

In summary, a 1500 kg car traveling at 25 m/s on a 200-m-diameter circular track experiences a net force of 9375 N towards the center, which is caused by the static frictional force of the car.
  • #1
jonasK
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0
[SOLVED] Circular Motion

Homework Statement



A 1500 kg car drives around a flat 200-m-diameter circular track at 25 m/s. What is the magnitude and direction of the net force on the car? What causes this force?

Homework Equations



[tex]F_c = \frac{mv^{2}}{r}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



So I suppose the net force is the force that maintains the circular motion. Thus,

[tex]F_{net} = \frac{(1500)(25)^{2}}{100} = 9375 N[/tex]

However, how exactly would I get the direction of [itex]F_{net}[/itex]? Is it enough to say say towards the center?

And was the cause of the net force the static frictional force of the car?

Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
Right on all points.
 
  • #3

Yes, your calculation for the magnitude of the net force on the car is correct. The direction of the net force is indeed towards the center of the circular track, as this is the direction required for the car to maintain its circular motion.

The cause of this net force is indeed the static frictional force between the car's tires and the track. This frictional force provides the necessary centripetal force to keep the car moving in a circular path. Without this force, the car would continue in a straight line tangent to the circle.

It is important to note that in circular motion, the net force is not constant in magnitude or direction. As the car moves around the track, the direction of the net force also changes, always pointing towards the center of the circle. This is what allows the car to continuously change its direction and maintain its circular motion.
 

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 while its direction changes continuously.

2. What is centripetal force?

Centripetal force is the force that pulls an object towards the center of a circular path, keeping it in circular motion. In the case of a car on a track, the centripetal force is provided by the friction between the tires and the track.

3. How is velocity related to circular motion?

In circular motion, velocity is constantly changing as the direction of the object changes. However, the speed of the object remains constant.

4. How does the radius of the track affect the car's motion?

The radius of the track has a direct impact on the car's motion. A larger radius means a longer distance to travel, resulting in a lower centripetal force required to maintain circular motion. On the other hand, a smaller radius means a shorter distance, requiring a higher centripetal force.

5. What factors can affect the car's ability to maintain circular motion?

The car's mass, speed, and the coefficient of friction between the tires and the track are all factors that can affect its ability to maintain circular motion. Other external forces, such as wind or bumps on the track, can also impact the car's motion.

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