Merry-Go-Round Physics

  • Thread starter cheddahchad
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In summary, the problem involves determining the maximum speed at which a 30 kg child can sit on a 12-m diameter merry-go-round without sliding, given a static friction coefficient of 0.56. The solution involves calculating the centripetal force and using statics equations to determine the minimum coefficient of static friction.
  • #1
cheddahchad
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Homework Statement


A child with mass m = 30 kg is sitting on a 12-m diameter merry-go-round. What is the maximum speed the merry-go-round can travel and the child not slide with a static friction coefficient of 0.56?


Homework Equations



To be honest, I had to miss a day of class because I was sick. I have no idea where to start on this problem. Any help or formulas would be much appreciated!


The Attempt at a Solution



See #2
 
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  • #2
It's about centripetal force. If you really haven't heard of that or don't know any equations concerning it, search the net. Calculate the centripetal force required to keep the child from spinning off, then use your usual statics equations to determine the frictional force, the normal force, and thus the minimum coefficient of static friction.
 

What is the "Merry-Go-Round Problem"?

The "Merry-Go-Round Problem" is a classic physics problem that involves a person standing on a rotating platform, such as a merry-go-round or a spinning playground ride. The person's motion and the forces acting on them are analyzed in order to understand the effects of centripetal force and angular velocity.

What is centripetal force?

Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. In the case of the "Merry-Go-Round Problem", this force is exerted by the platform on the person standing on it, allowing them to maintain their circular motion.

What is angular velocity?

Angular velocity is a measure of how quickly an object is rotating around a fixed axis. In the "Merry-Go-Round Problem", it describes the speed at which the platform is spinning and the rate at which the person's position is changing.

How does the "Merry-Go-Round Problem" relate to real-world applications?

The "Merry-Go-Round Problem" has many real-world applications, such as understanding the motion of planets around the sun, the behavior of cars on curved roads, and the design of amusement park rides. It also has practical uses in fields such as engineering and robotics.

What are some key factors that affect the solution to the "Merry-Go-Round Problem"?

Some key factors that affect the solution to the "Merry-Go-Round Problem" include the radius of the circular path, the mass of the person and the platform, the speed of rotation, and the presence of any other external forces acting on the system. These factors can greatly impact the magnitude and direction of the centripetal force and the resulting motion of the person on the platform.

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