Ferris Wheel Weight Calculation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the apparent weight of a student on a Ferris Wheel, specifically analyzing the effects of speed on weight perception. When the Ferris Wheel rotates steadily, the student's apparent weight at the top is less than their actual weight due to centripetal acceleration, calculated as 250 - (m(v²/r)). If the speed is tripled, the apparent weight at the top increases significantly, leading to a calculation of 2250 lbs based on the factor of 9 increase in centripetal force. The consensus is that the apparent weight varies with speed, confirming that the original weight of 250 lbs does not remain constant throughout the ride.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal force and acceleration
  • Basic physics concepts related to weight and apparent weight
  • Familiarity with the formula for calculating apparent weight: W' = W - (m(v²/r))
  • Knowledge of rotational motion dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of centripetal acceleration in rotating systems
  • Learn about the effects of speed on apparent weight in physics
  • Explore advanced topics in rotational dynamics and forces
  • Investigate real-world applications of physics in amusement park rides
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in the dynamics of amusement park rides will benefit from this discussion.

Kharmon7814
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Ferris Wheel ...Trick Question?

This is one of those that might be a typo or I am really missing something. A 250lb student is riding on a steadily rotating Ferris Wheel. If the student has an apparent weight of 250lb at the top what will be the students apparent weight at the bottom? What would be the apparent weight of the student at the top if the speed of the Ferris wheel were exactly tripled?
If the weight is the same at the top as it normaly is then all the forces are equaling out so there wouldn't be a change in weight anywhere on the wheel. Right? As for tripling the speed his weight would increase by a factor of 9 so it would be 2250lbs. Am I on the right track here? Thanks for the help
 
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Are you sure with the question.Because student with original weight 250 lb will have weight less than 250lb at the top of the wheel provided the wheel move with constant speed.

because the new weight becomes=250-m(v^2/r)
m=mass of student
v=speed of the wheel
r=radius of the wheel

it is possible to have the same weight if only when speed is zero.but the question says"steadily rotating Ferris Wheel".So I am questioning that part.
 
It was a typo

The weight of the student was 225 at the top. Having all the info makes the problem much easyer.
 

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