Normal and Tangential Coordinates

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The discussion centers on a physics problem involving a bead moving along a curved path, where a horizontal force of 3 oz acts at point B. The confusion arises regarding the terminology used to describe the force, specifically whether it should be labeled as "horizontal" or "normal." Participants clarify that the normal direction in this context is indeed horizontal, meaning the force can be considered in both terms. The goal is to determine the radius of curvature ρ at point B based on the given parameters. Understanding the force's direction is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
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Homework Statement


The 2-oz bead P is given an initial speed of 5 ft/sec at point A of the smooth guide which is curved in the horizontal plane. The horizontal force between the bead and the guide has a magnitude of 3 oz at point B.

Determine the radius of curvature ρ of the path at this point


I have attached an image of the question.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



The question is fairly straightforward but I'm confused by the 'horizontal force'. My professor went over this example in class and when she drew the FBD she had the 3oz force pointing in the positive normal direction and I'm wondering if she meant for the question to say that the force is in the normal direction instead of in the horizontal direction.

Any insight would be appreciated.
 

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Can you see that the "normal direction" is horizontal? So, finding the force in the normal direction will also give the force in the horizontal direction.
 

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