Minimum angular velocity formula

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SUMMARY

The minimum angular velocity formula for a cylindrical amusement park ride is derived from the balance of forces acting on a person leaning against the wall. The correct expression for the minimum angular velocity (ω) is ω = √(g/(r*μ)), where g represents gravitational acceleration, r is the radius of the chamber, and μ is the coefficient of static friction. This formula ensures that the gravitational force is countered by the frictional force, allowing the person to remain "stuck" to the wall without falling.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically forces and motion.
  • Familiarity with angular velocity and its relationship to linear velocity.
  • Knowledge of static friction and its coefficient.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions and equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of circular motion and centripetal force.
  • Learn about the role of friction in motion and how to calculate the coefficient of friction.
  • Explore real-world applications of angular velocity in amusement park rides and similar systems.
  • Investigate the effects of varying radius and friction on the minimum angular velocity required.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone interested in the dynamics of rotational motion and amusement park ride design.

edr2004
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Homework Statement


A ride in an amusement park consists of a cylindrical chamber that rotates around a vertical axis as shown in the diagram below. When the angular velocity is sufficiently high, a person leaning against the wall can take his or her feet off the floor and remain "stuck" to the wall without falling.

Construct an expression for the minimum angular velocity that the ride could rotate at such that the person remains stuck to the wall. Use the following Use the following when entering your symbolic expression:

m : for the mass of the person
g : for the gravitational field strength near the surface of the earth
r : the radius of the cylindrical chamber (from the center to the walls)
mu : for the coefficient of friction between the person's back and the wall
pi : for π = 3.141592654...

Homework Equations


|FN| = mv2/r the inward normal force
|Fs| = μs|FN|maximum force of static friction
Fs| = mg

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought this was the answer but it is not correct.
v = sqrt((g*r)/mu)

ANy help would be appreciated!
 
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Setting the vertical forces to cancel out I get

m*g = mu*m*r*w^2

w = sqrt(g/(r*mu))
 

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