Conceptual Uniform Circular motion problem?

In summary, the conversation discusses a question about how a man should jump onto a spinning merry go round to avoid falling. The equations F=ma and a=v^2/r are mentioned, and the suggestion is made to lean towards the center while jumping to maintain a circular trajectory. It is also suggested to experiment with a similar object to understand the concept better.
  • #1
toesockshoe
265
2

Homework Statement


This isn't a homework problem, but I was just thinking of the following question:

Suppose that a merry go round spins with a constant speed (so its radially accelerating towards the center), and a man want to jump onto the merry go-round while its spinning. In what way should the man get on the marry go round so he won't fall?

Homework Equations


F=ma;
a=v^2/r

The Attempt at a Solution



My guess is that when he gets on the merry go round, he should lean towards the center because that's how the merry go round is accelerating. Is that correct? Is there a way to solve this problem using F=ma?[/B]
 
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  • #2
He needs a tangential velocity to not be suddenly accelerated in a tangential direction.

He needs a radial force to get/keep him in a circular trajectory. So leaning inwards seems the best thing to do.

Find a merry go round (or something similar in a play yard) and experiment.

[edit] "(so its radially accelerating towards the center)" evokes a wrong image.
 

1. What is conceptual uniform circular motion?

Conceptual uniform circular motion is a type of motion in which an object moves in a circular path at a constant speed. This means that the object covers equal distances in equal time intervals along the circumference of the circle.

2. How is uniform circular motion different from non-uniform circular motion?

In uniform circular motion, the speed of the object remains constant, while in non-uniform circular motion, the speed changes at different points along the circular path. This means that the object is accelerating in non-uniform circular motion, while it is moving at a constant velocity in uniform circular motion.

3. What is the role of centripetal force in uniform circular motion?

Centripetal force is the force that acts towards the center of the circle and keeps the object moving in a circular path. In uniform circular motion, the centripetal force is equal to the product of the mass of the object, its speed squared, and the radius of the circular path.

4. Can an object in uniform circular motion have a changing velocity?

No, an object in uniform circular motion cannot have a changing velocity. This is because the velocity of the object is always tangential to the circular path and remains constant in magnitude and direction.

5. How is uniform circular motion used in real-world applications?

Uniform circular motion is used in a variety of real-world applications, such as amusement park rides, centrifuges, and the motion of planets and satellites. It is also used in sports such as figure skating and gymnastics, where athletes perform circular motions at a constant speed.

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