Force of a Roller Coaster in a Vertical Loop

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the forces acting on a roller coaster as it navigates a vertical loop. The primary force responsible for the circular motion is the net force, which is derived from Newton's second law (Fnet = ma). Participants emphasize that the direction of acceleration is crucial and should be determined geometrically. The roller coaster's speed and the gravitational force acting on the passengers also play significant roles in maintaining the circular motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (Fnet = ma)
  • Basic knowledge of circular motion and acceleration
  • Familiarity with forces acting on objects in motion
  • Geometry concepts related to circular paths
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of circular motion in physics
  • Learn about gravitational forces and their effects on objects
  • Explore the application of Newton's laws in real-world scenarios
  • Investigate the role of centripetal force in maintaining circular motion
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in the dynamics of roller coasters and circular motion.

Unity
Messages
4
Reaction score
0

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.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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)
 

Similar threads

Why does the speed change at the bottom of the loop-the-loop?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Speed at the top of an elliptical roller coaster loop
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Minimum Speed for a Roller-Coaster Car to Complete a Loop without Seat Belts
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Understanding Newton's First Law & Safety Measures for Roller Coaster Rides
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
How Is the Force on a Child in a Roller Coaster Calculated?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
7K
Simulated circular motion on a roller coaster
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Friction between roller coaster and track
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
8K
Constant Breaking force for roller coaster
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
What Height is Needed for a Roller Coaster to Complete a Loop?
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
3K
Velocity of Roller Coaster at Top of Loop - Find the Answer!
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K