Plane in a vertical loop and gravity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of a plane executing a vertical loop, specifically addressing the forces experienced by the pilot at the highest point of the loop. It is established that when the plane's speed is optimal, the pilot experiences no apparent force from the seat or safety belts, akin to free fall. The pilot's weight can vary independently of the aircraft's weight, and the sensation of weightlessness occurs due to the balance of gravitational force and centripetal acceleration at that point in the loop.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of circular motion dynamics
  • Familiarity with gravitational force concepts
  • Knowledge of acceleration equations, specifically a_r = V^2/R
  • Basic principles of free fall and weightlessness
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of centripetal acceleration in detail
  • Explore the effects of gravitational forces on objects in free fall
  • Learn about the physics of vertical loops in aviation
  • Investigate the relationship between mass, weight, and apparent weight in different gravitational contexts
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, physics students, pilots, and anyone interested in the dynamics of flight and the effects of gravity on objects in motion.

Karol
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Homework Statement


A plane makes a vertical loop like in the drawing. the speed is exactly what is needed that at the highest point the pilot won't feel any force nor from the seat and nor from the safety belts.
1) what is the weight of the pilot in comparison to the airplane?
2) what gravity feeling has the pilot?

Homework Equations


Acceleration in circular motion: ##a_r=\frac{V^2}{R}##

The Attempt at a Solution


1) the pilot's weight can be anything, even very heavy in comparison to the plane, i don't understand the question.
2) the pilot feels only g, so he is in free fall, like astronauts. but what does he feel? nothing? when i fall i feel sick
 

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So what is the question I can help with ? Because I agree with you on both counts, I feel pretty helpless in helping out...:smile:
 
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Do they mean the weight of the pilot/aircraft on the ground or the apparent weight or both at the top of the loop?
 

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