Force of a Roller Coaster in a Vertical Loop

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the forces acting on a roller coaster as it moves through a vertical loop at constant speed. The primary question is about the direction of the force that enables the coaster and its passengers to navigate the circular path. Participants suggest that the force is related to acceleration, which is determined geometrically rather than physically. Newton's second law, Fnet = ma, is mentioned as a method to calculate the net force acting on the roller coaster. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
Unity
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Homework Statement


A roller coaster moves through a vertical loop at a constant speed and suspends its passengers upside down. In what direction is the force that causes the coaster and its passengers to move in a circle? What provides this force?

The Attempt at a Solution


We started this chapter friday, so I'm not even sure where to start on this one. I thought that the force would be positive, and that the force of the roller coaster is what's providing the force...but I'm not confident that I'm answering it right at all. Thanks for the feedback guys.
 
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Hi Unity! :smile:

The direction and amount of the acceleration, a, is a matter of geometry, not phsyics, so find a first.

(and then use good ol' Newton's second law … Fnet = ma … to find Fnet)
 
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