Newtonian Mechanics - Banked curves

In summary, Newtonian Mechanics is a branch of classical mechanics that studies the motion of particles and objects under the influence of external forces using Newton's three laws of motion. Banked curves are tilted sections of a road or track that allow vehicles to travel at high speeds without slipping or skidding. In banked curves, centripetal force, which is the inward force that keeps an object moving in a circular path, acts in combination with the normal force to provide the necessary acceleration for the vehicle to move along the curved path without slipping. The angle of banking affects the speed of a vehicle by changing the direction and magnitude of the normal force, with a greater angle of banking allowing for a higher speed. The ideal banking angle for a particular curve
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SeReNiTy
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Hi, I'm having some trouble determining the formulae for banked curve problems, could somebody give me a general guideline on how to tackle these type of problems.

My main problem is resolving the Normal reaction in terms of the angle of the inclined plain. Like i know that Ncos(angle) = (m(v^2))/r

But how did they resolve to find this, a diagram if you can will be truly helpful guys!
 
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draw out a free body diagram of the situation. Then make Fnet on the car = 0.

Regards,

Nenad
 
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Banked curves involve the motion of an object along a curved path with a banked surface, such as a race track or a banked road. In order to understand the motion of an object on a banked curve, we need to consider the forces acting on the object. These forces include the normal force, the gravitational force, and the centripetal force.

To find the formula for the normal force in terms of the angle of the inclined plane, we can use the concept of equilibrium. In a banked curve, the normal force is the component of the weight of the object that is perpendicular to the surface. This normal force helps to balance out the centrifugal force, which is the force that keeps the object moving in a circular path.

To resolve the normal force in terms of the angle of the inclined plane, we can use trigonometric functions. The formula you mentioned, Ncos(angle) = (m(v^2))/r, comes from resolving the normal force into its components along the x and y axes. The x component of the normal force is Ncos(angle), which is equal to the centrifugal force, mv^2/r. This can be derived using basic trigonometry and Newton's second law, which states that the net force on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration.

A diagram can definitely be helpful in visualizing this concept. In a banked curve, the normal force is perpendicular to the surface, while the centripetal force is directed towards the center of the curve. The angle of the inclined plane can be represented by the angle between the surface and the horizontal. By drawing a right triangle and using trigonometric ratios, we can derive the formula for the normal force in terms of the angle.

In summary, to tackle banked curve problems, it is important to consider the forces acting on the object and use basic principles of equilibrium and trigonometry to derive the necessary formulas. A diagram can be useful in understanding the concept and visualizing the forces involved. I hope this helps in tackling your banked curve problems!
 

FAQ: Newtonian Mechanics - Banked curves

What is Newtonian Mechanics?

Newtonian Mechanics is a branch of classical mechanics that studies the motion of particles and objects under the influence of external forces, using Newton's three laws of motion.

What are banked curves?

Banked curves are curved sections of a road or track that are tilted at an angle, which allows vehicles to travel at high speeds without slipping or skidding.

What is the role of centripetal force in banked curves?

Centripetal force is the inward force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. In banked curves, it acts in combination with the normal force to provide the necessary centripetal acceleration for the vehicle to move along the curved path without slipping.

How does the angle of banking affect the speed of a vehicle?

The angle of banking affects the speed of a vehicle by changing the direction and magnitude of the normal force. A greater angle of banking allows for a higher speed because it reduces the lateral force acting on the vehicle, making it easier for the vehicle to maintain its circular path without slipping.

What factors influence the ideal banking angle for a particular curve?

The ideal banking angle for a particular curve is influenced by factors such as the speed of the vehicle, the radius of the curve, and the coefficient of friction between the tires and the road. Other factors like the weight and size of the vehicle also play a role in determining the ideal banking angle.

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