How to determine the car's deceleration at a point along a curve?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the angle of a circular sector, specifically determining why the angle θ equals 30 degrees in a given scenario involving a car's deceleration along a curve. Participants clarify that the angle between two tangents is equivalent to the angle of the circular segment, emphasizing the importance of understanding basic geometry principles, such as the relationship between angles with perpendicular sides. The conversation highlights the necessity of visual aids and clear problem statements for effective problem-solving in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic geometry concepts, including angles and tangents.
  • Familiarity with circular motion and curvature in physics.
  • Ability to interpret geometric diagrams and their implications in problem-solving.
  • Knowledge of theorems related to angles with perpendicular sides.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between tangents and angles in circular motion.
  • Learn about theorems related to angles in Euclidean geometry.
  • Explore interactive geometry resources, such as those on Math is Fun and Math Open Reference.
  • Practice deriving angles in physics problems involving circular motion and deceleration.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics and mathematics, particularly those looking to strengthen their understanding of geometry and its applications in real-world problems.

  • #31
JesseProbst said:
this is when two lines meet, they form right angles.
Unless you state the whole thing, it’s meaningless. There are two pairs of lines involved. Read that helpful link. It states the actual theorem.
 
Last edited:
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  • #32
Err, ok, thanks, I'll check it
 

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