Man on Platform: Min Value of μs for Radial Motion to be Straight

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In summary, the problem involves a rotating platform, a man walking on it with constant radial velocity, and a calculation of the minimum value for the static friction coefficient ##\mu_s## to maintain straight radial motion. The man experiences a Coriolis force, but there is also a net acceleration due to centripetal/centrifugal forces. Using the equation ##a_0=a'+a_{cc}+a_c## and considering the angular momentum and torque, a different value for ##\mu_s## is obtained.
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bznm
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Homework Statement


A platform rotates in counterclockwise with angular velocity w.
A man walks frm the center of the platform to the border with constant radial velocity v' wrt the platform.
##\mu_s## is the static friction coefficient.

Calculate the minimum value for ##\mu_s## such that the radial motion is straight.
What about a', value of the man acceleration wrt the platform?

Homework Equations


##a_0=a'+a_{cc}+a_c##

where ##a_0## absolute acceleration, a'=man acceleration wrt the patform, ##a_{cc}= 2 w x v'##, ##a_c=-w^2 r u_r##

##u_r##= unit vector with radial direction
##u_t##= unit vector with tangent direction

The Attempt at a Solution


absolute velocity : ##v_0=v' u_r+wr w_t##
absolute acceleration: ##dv_0/dt=2v' w u_t-w^2r u_r##

I want that the man goes straight on respect with an observer on the paltform, so I "cancel" the Coriolis acceleration:
##\mu_s =2v'w/g##

##a'=a_0-a_{cc}-a_c+a_{friction}=2v'wu_t##

But I have obtained the Coriolis acceleration! ... Something went wrong. Please, help me!
 
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  • #2
Doesn't the man experience a "fictitious" force which is the Coriolis force?
What happens if you look at the problem from the actual inertial frame?
Then the angular momentum is I w (where w is the angular velocity).
What is the torque required to produce the change in angular momentum due to
the man walking on the platform?
 
  • #3
bznm said:
##a_0=a'+a_{cc}+a_c##
Agreed, if you mean that vectorially. And you know a', yes? So what is the net acceleration?
bznm said:
##\mu_s =2v'w/g##
No, that assumes the only acceleration of the man is Coriolis. There is also centripetal/centrifugal.
 

1. What does "Min Value of μs for Radial Motion to be Straight" mean?

The minimum value of μs refers to the minimum coefficient of static friction required for an object to move in a straight line when subjected to radial motion, or motion in a circular path.

2. Why is it important to determine the minimum value of μs for radial motion to be straight?

Knowing the minimum value of μs allows us to determine the minimum amount of friction needed to prevent an object from sliding off a curved path and maintain a straight trajectory. This information is crucial for understanding the stability and safety of objects in motion.

3. How is the minimum value of μs for radial motion to be straight calculated?

The minimum value of μs can be calculated using the equation μs = v2/rg, where v is the linear velocity, r is the radius of the circular path, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. This equation takes into account the forces acting on the object, such as gravity and centripetal force, to determine the minimum friction needed to maintain a straight path.

4. Can the minimum value of μs for radial motion to be straight vary for different objects?

Yes, the minimum value of μs can vary depending on factors such as the mass and shape of the object, the surface it is moving on, and the speed and radius of the circular motion. For example, a heavier object may require a higher coefficient of static friction to maintain a straight path compared to a lighter object.

5. How does the minimum value of μs for radial motion to be straight relate to Newton's Laws of Motion?

The minimum value of μs for radial motion to be straight is related to Newton's First Law of Motion, which states that an object will remain in motion in a straight line unless acted upon by an external force. In this case, the minimum value of μs represents the minimum external force (friction) needed to maintain a straight path and prevent the object from deviating from its trajectory.

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