Where is the normal force located on a rollercoaster loop?

AI Thread Summary
The normal force (FN) on a rollercoaster at the top of a loop acts straight down, perpendicular to the surface. Gravity also acts downward, while the force of friction (Ff) opposes the direction of the rollercoaster's motion. Understanding these forces is crucial for accurately drawing a free-body diagram. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing the orientation of forces in different positions on the rollercoaster. Overall, clarity on the normal force's direction enhances comprehension of the physics involved in rollercoaster dynamics.
JimmyRay
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Hi I have to draw a freebody diagram for FN (normal force) of an object at different locations on my rollercoaster.

Where would FN be located when the object is upside down (going through a loop) ... would it just be straight down? (like gravity) ? Because FN is always perpendicular to the surface, so when the object is at the top of a loop on my roller coaster, FN would be straight down wouldn't it? And Ff would be straight up? And gravity is always down...
 
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The force of friction is against the direction of the roller coaster's motion.

Gravity is always down, and the normal force at the top of the loop, would indeed be straight down.

Check this out...

http://www.glenbrook.k12.il.us/gbssci/phys/mmedia/circmot/rcd.html
 
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Oh my god... thank you soooooooooo much
 
You are welcome :-D Sometimes google gives pretty good answers too, but it helps to know what to look for.
 

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