Rotational Motion Speed at the top of the loop

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To find the speed of a motorcycle at the top of a vertical loop with a radius of 12 m, where the normal force is one-fourth of the driver's weight, the relevant equations include F=ma and a=v²/r. The calculation involves setting the net force equal to the difference between the centripetal force and the weight of the driver. The derived equation leads to a speed of 9.4 m/s, which matches the correct answer choice. This solution highlights the importance of understanding forces in rotational motion.
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Homework Statement



12. A motorcycle travels around a vertical 12 m radius loop. What is its speed at the top of the loop if the normal force exerted by the seat on the driver is equal to ¼ of his weight?

a. 7 m/s

b. 8.1 m/s

*c. 9.4 m/s

d. 15 m/s

e. 88 m/s

Homework Equations



F=ma
W=mg
T=F-W
a=v2/r

The Attempt at a Solution



I did (1/4)W=m(v2/r)-W and I got 12.1 m/s
 
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I get the same answer as you.
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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