Compute the tangential acceleration

In summary, tangential acceleration is the rate of change of an object's tangential velocity, which is the velocity component that is tangent to the object's circular path. It can be calculated using the formula a<sub>t</sub> = v<sub>t</sub><sup>2</sup> / r and is different from centripetal acceleration, which measures the change in direction towards the center of the circle. Tangential acceleration can cause an object to speed up or slow down, and it has real-world applications in areas such as amusement park rides, sports, and space technology.
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Homework Statement


If the car starts at height h = 60.0 m and the radius is R = 15.0 m, compute the tangential acceleration of the passengers when the car is at point C, which is at the end of a horizontal diameter.
Take the free fall acceleration to be g = 9.80 m/s^2.
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Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


Have tried a couple of solutions but have limited chances left. Don't want to get it wrong, any ideas?
 
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Got it, nevermind!

BUMP
 
  • #3
How did you figure it out? I'm completely lost.
 

FAQ: Compute the tangential acceleration

What is tangential acceleration?

Tangential acceleration is the rate of change of an object's tangential velocity, which is the velocity component that is tangent to the object's circular path. It is a measure of how quickly the object is changing direction.

How is tangential acceleration calculated?

Tangential acceleration can be calculated using the formula at = vt2 / r, where at is the tangential acceleration, vt is the tangential velocity, and r is the radius of the circular path.

What is the difference between tangential acceleration and centripetal acceleration?

Tangential acceleration and centripetal acceleration are both components of the total acceleration of an object moving in a circular path. Tangential acceleration measures the change in tangential velocity, while centripetal acceleration measures the change in direction towards the center of the circle.

How does tangential acceleration affect an object's motion?

Tangential acceleration can cause an object to speed up or slow down, depending on the direction of the change in tangential velocity. If the tangential acceleration is in the same direction as the tangential velocity, the object will speed up. If the tangential acceleration is in the opposite direction, the object will slow down.

What are some real-world applications of tangential acceleration?

Tangential acceleration is important in many areas of science and engineering, such as in the design of roller coasters and other amusement park rides. It is also used in sports, such as when a baseball player throws a curveball or when a race car driver navigates around a turn. In space, tangential acceleration is essential for keeping satellites in orbit around the Earth.

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