Discover the Tangential Velocity for the Wall of Death Amusement Park Ride

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the tangential velocity required for riders to remain securely against the wall of the Wall of Death amusement park ride. The radius of the cylinder is 3.9 meters, and the coefficient of static friction is 0.35. The centripetal acceleration is calculated as 3.43 m/s² using the formula (0.35 * 9.8). To determine the minimum tangential velocity, the relationship between the frictional force and the normal reaction force must be established, ensuring that the frictional force equals the weight of the riders.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal acceleration and its formula
  • Knowledge of static friction and its coefficient
  • Familiarity with the concepts of force and motion in physics
  • Basic algebra for solving equations related to motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the minimum tangential velocity using the equation derived from centripetal force principles
  • Explore the physics of rotational motion and its applications in amusement park rides
  • Investigate the effects of varying the radius and friction coefficient on ride safety
  • Learn about the design considerations for amusement park rides to ensure rider safety
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, amusement park ride designers, and engineers interested in the mechanics of rotational motion and safety in thrill rides.

am08
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The Wall of Death in an amusement park is comprised of a vertical cylinder that can spin around the vertical axis. Riders stand against the wall of the spinning cylinder and the floor falls away leaving the riders held up by friction. The radius of the cylinder is 3.9 m and the coefficient of static friction between the rider and the wall is 0.35. Find the tangential velocity of the spinning wall necessary so that the riders do not slip down the wall.

Centripetal Acc = (.35*9.8) = 3.43 m/s^2

How do I apply that to find the tangential velocity?
 
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am08 said:
Centripetal Acc = (.35*9.8) = 3.43 m/s^2

How did you get this??

Centripetal force is the normal reaction N. The frictional force F must be equal to weight. You should know the relationship between F and N when static friction is max. Now write the correct eqn for minimum tangential velocity.
 

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