Uniform Circular Motion of a race car

In summary, the problem involves a race car driving around an unbanked turn at a maximum speed of 42 m/s with a radius of 140 m. The car's wing creates a downforce of 12000 N, and the task is to find the coefficient of static friction and the maximum speed without the downforce. The equations used are F s (max) = v squared / r and Fn - mg - Fd = 0. The solution is not provided, but the poster has questions on how to find Fs max and the maximum speed without the downforce.
  • #1
wizzpowa
10
0

Homework Statement



A 990-kg race car can drive around an unbanked turn at a maximum speed of 42 m/s without slipping. The turn has a radius of 140 m. Air flowing over the car's wing exerts a downward-pointing force (called the downforce) of 12000 N on the car. (a) What is the coefficient of static friction between the track and the car's tires? (b) What would be the maximum speed if no downforce acted on the car?

Homework Equations



F s (max) = v squared / r
Fn - mg - Fd = 0

The Attempt at a Solution



So i got the normal force, but I am so confused on how to get Fs max. Isn't it equal to the centripetal force??
 
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  • #2
Also, for part B, I know you just have to make the downforce equal to zero, but i am not sure how to find V.
 
  • #3
hi wizzpowa! :smile:

do you still need help with this?

btw, never reply to your own first post …

it takes the thread off the No-Replies list! :redface:
 

Related to Uniform Circular Motion of a race car

1. What is uniform circular motion?

Uniform circular motion refers to the movement of an object traveling in a circular path at a constant speed. This means that the object is experiencing a constant acceleration towards the center of the circle, known as centripetal acceleration, while maintaining a constant tangential speed.

2. How is the centripetal force related to uniform circular motion?

The centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a circular path. It is always directed towards the center of the circle and is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by the square of its tangential speed divided by the radius of the circle. In uniform circular motion, the centripetal force remains constant while the tangential speed and radius may change.

3. Can a race car experience uniform circular motion?

Yes, a race car can experience uniform circular motion if it is traveling in a circular path at a constant speed. However, in most cases, race cars experience non-uniform circular motion as they are often accelerating or decelerating while turning.

4. How do you calculate the tangential speed of a race car in uniform circular motion?

The tangential speed of a race car in uniform circular motion can be calculated by dividing the distance traveled in the circular path by the time it takes to complete one full revolution. This is also known as the angular velocity, measured in radians per second, and can be converted to linear tangential speed by multiplying it by the radius of the circle.

5. What is the role of friction in uniform circular motion of a race car?

Friction plays a crucial role in the uniform circular motion of a race car. It provides the necessary centripetal force to keep the car moving in a circular path. The friction between the tires and the road surface helps the car maintain its speed and direction while turning. The type and condition of the tires can greatly affect the car's ability to maintain uniform circular motion.

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