Uniform circular motion - plane in a circular arc

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the radius of a circular arc in which a pilot experiences an upward acceleration of 9.0 gs while flying at a speed of 330 km/h. The relevant equations include centripetal acceleration (ac = v²/r) and net force (Fnet = ΣF). The pilot's mass is given as 60 kg, and the centripetal acceleration is derived from the upward acceleration experienced. The challenge lies in determining the radius of the arc without knowing the mass of the plane.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of centripetal acceleration and its formula (ac = v²/r)
  • Knowledge of Newton's second law (Fnet = ΣF)
  • Basic physics concepts related to forces and motion
  • Familiarity with unit conversions (e.g., converting km/h to m/s)
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the radius of the circular arc using the centripetal acceleration formula.
  • Convert the speed of the plane from km/h to m/s for accurate calculations.
  • Explore the relationship between mass, force, and acceleration in circular motion.
  • Review examples of centripetal force problems in physics textbooks or online resources.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and circular motion, as well as educators looking for practical examples of centripetal acceleration in real-world scenarios.

Sean1218
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Homework Statement



As a pilot comes out of a dive in a circular arc she experiences an upward acceleration of 9.0 gs (i.e. 9 x 9.8).

a) Mentions that the Pilot's mass is 60 kg, already solved this

b) If the speed of the plane is 330 km/h, what is the radius of the plane's arc?

Homework Equations



ac = v2/r
Fnet = \SigmaF

The Attempt at a Solution



No idea what to do because I can't figure out what is causing the centripetal acceleration.

mv2/r = - mg

I don't know the mass of the plane, and if I add another force which I assume would cause the centripetal acceleration then I have no way of calculating that either.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The upward acceleration the pilot experiences is directed towards the center of rotation, so you are given the centripetal acceleration.
 

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