Normal Reaction in the following cases

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving the normal reaction force experienced by a block on different tracks that rise to the same height. Participants are examining how the curvature of the tracks affects the normal reaction at the highest point, considering the same entry speed for the block.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning how the curvature of the tracks influences the normal reaction force, particularly why one track is suggested to have a maximum normal reaction despite seeming to have the same radius as another track. There is also discussion about the implications of track extensions and potential flaws in the question's presentation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various interpretations of the problem. Some have offered insights into the relationship between radius and normal force, while others express skepticism about the clarity and accuracy of the question itself.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the radii of curvature for the tracks, as some participants suggest they may not be identical despite appearances. The problem's setup and the assumptions made about the tracks are under scrutiny.

Kasul
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A small block is shot into each of the four tracks as shown below. Each of the tracks rise to the same height. The speed with which the block enters the track is the same in all cases. At the highest point of the track, the normal Reaction is maximum in which track?

2. Homework Equations
At the highest point, N - mg = (mv^2)/r
So, N = (mv^2)/r + mg

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't understand how the curvature of the track affects the normal reaction. I suppose it can't be option 3 and option 4 because those have greater radius and using the above mentioned formula, the normal reaction will be less. But why is the answer 1 when option 1 and 2 seem to have the same radius?
 

Attachments

  • UC_Photo_001.jpg
    UC_Photo_001.jpg
    58.6 KB · Views: 673
Physics news on Phys.org
Kasul said:
But why is the answer 1 when option 1 and 2 seem to have the same radius?
Fair question. They certainly look like the same radius, the only difference being that 1 continues further along the downward curve. Since that's beyond the highest point, it cannot affect anything at the highest point. The only other possibility is that the radii are not the same, they just look it to the unaided eye, but that would make it a poor question.
 
I'm sure it must have something to do with one track being extended but I don't know what difference that makes. Either that or the person that framed the question made a mistake.
 
Kasul said:
I'm sure it must have something to do with one track being extended but I don't know what difference that makes. Either that or the person that framed the question made a mistake.
I'm certain it is a flawed question.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Kasul
Kasul said:

Homework Statement


A small block is shot into each of the four tracks as shown below. Each of the tracks rise to the same height. The speed with which the block enters the track is the same in all cases. At the highest point of the track, the normal Reaction is maximum in which track?

2. Homework Equations
At the highest point, N - mg = (mv^2)/r
So, N = (mv^2)/r + mg

At the highest point, the direction of the centripetal force is downward, the resultant of gravity and the normal force, both downward. (mv^2)/r=N+mg, so N= (mv^2)/r - mg. So where can be the normal force maximum? At the smallest or greatest radius of curvature?
 
ehild said:
At the highest point, the direction of the centripetal force is downward, the resultant of gravity and the normal force, both downward. (mv^2)/r=N+mg, so N= (mv^2)/r - mg. So where can be the normal force maximum? At the smallest or greatest radius of curvature?
Are you suggesting that options 1 and 2 have different radii at their highest points? Doesn't look that way to me.
 
I suggested that the OP's equation for the normal force was wrong .
One peak of curves 1 and 2 looks a bit wider than the other one for me, but not considerably. I agree that it is a poorly presented question.
 

Similar threads

Proper use of inequality symbols in equations to do with circular motion
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Pulling with and without a pulley
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Equilibrium : normal reaction of a rotational center?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Understanding the Minimum Speed to Keep Carriage on Tracks in a Loop
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
What is the reaction force between the ring and the hoop?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Reaction force be 0 at top of circular path swing?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Question Regarding Circular Motion and Normal Forces
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Circular motion - ball in a loop
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K
Finding the normal at the bottom of a curved track
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Circular Motion of a Cyclist and a Car going around a bend in the road
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K