How do curve speed and incline angle affect the downward force on a car?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding how curve speed and incline angle affect the downward force on a car. The problem involves concepts from mechanics, particularly relating to forces acting on a vehicle on an incline.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between downward force on an incline and factors like mass, curve speed, and incline angle. Questions arise about the mathematical relationships and the conditions under which a car might slide down the incline.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the equations related to centripetal force and gravitational components. Some guidance has been offered regarding equating forces to analyze the situation, but multiple interpretations and conceptual questions remain open.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of an answer key, but the specific details of the problem setup and any constraints are not fully outlined. Participants are encouraged to consider free body diagrams and the implications of varying speeds and angles.

NA19
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Homework Statement


The question is attached!


Homework Equations


mgsintheta = downward force on incline


The Attempt at a Solution


I was thinking that this has something to do with the downward force on the incline and making sure that the car doesn't slide down the incline. Changing the mass or curve speed limits may cause the car to slide down the incline but I'm not sure how this makes sense mathematically. And so, I'm trying to understand the mathematical explanation.

My answer key says the answer is C.
 

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1) The car of mass M is going around a curve of radius R with velocity V. What is the equation for the centripetal force required to make it turn?

2) What's the equation for the component of the force due to gravity acting towards the center of the curve?

If the force calculated in 2) matches that calculated in 1) then there is no tendency to slide down or up the slope.

Equate the two forces. Something will cancel.
 
So you would equate mgsintheta = mv^2/r?
And then since speed increased, you would also need to increase theta?

What is the conceptual explanation? Why would the angle need to be increased if the speed increases?
 
Draw the free body diagram.

Work out the rough direction of the net force..

a) When the car is going very slowly or is stationary
b) When the car is going very fast

Have a think about what that means for the friction/grip required.
 

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