Using friction in circular motion

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on understanding the role of friction in circular motion, specifically regarding a car negotiating a bend. For part (a), kinetic friction is applicable since the car is skidding, while for part (b), static friction must be considered as the tires do not skid. Participants clarify that the direction of the frictional force is crucial, as it opposes the direction of motion. Additionally, the interpretation of the problem is highlighted, emphasizing the need to assess the car's speed relative to its position on the road. Understanding these concepts is essential for accurately solving the physics problem.
PAstudent
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


Fnet=m(v^2/R)[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution


I understood the FBD and how to find the bank angle. I just don't fully understand what part a and b are giving me in terms of friction. So for a, since it is skidding would only kinetic friction be used? Then for b, would I have to find the fs max because the tires don't skid?
 
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That sounds correct.
 
PAstudent said:

Homework Statement


View attachment 89548

Homework Equations


Fnet=m(v^2/R)[/B]

The Attempt at a Solution


I understood the FBD and how to find the bank angle. I just don't fully understand what part a and b are giving me in terms of friction. So for a, since it is skidding would only kinetic friction be used? Then for b, would I have to find the fs max because the tires don't skid?
Yes to: "So for a, since it is skidding would only kinetic friction be used? ".

Yes to: "Then for b, would I have to find the fs max because the tires don't skid?".
 
Thank you for the replies
 
PAstudent said:
Then for b, would I have to find the fs max because the tires don't skid?
I'm not quite sure what you are asking there. Are you asking whether the only difference in the two solutions is which coefficient you should use?
If so, the answer is no. You also need to consider which direction the frictional force acts in.

The problem interpretation is a bit awkward in (a). What does it mean to ask whether the car will safely negotiate the bend while skidding, given that its speed will not be constant? To answer correctly, one would need to know how much margin there is, i.e. how far the car starts from the outer edge of the road. So presumably we must interpret it as how fast can the car go without its radius of travel increasing, i.e. as though it is already at the edge of the road.
 
image.jpg

Is it correct for (a) to solve for the mass and plug that into the other Newton's 2nd law to cancel the mass and normal force
 
PAstudent said:
View attachment 89563
Is it correct for (a) to solve for the mass and plug that into the other Newton's 2nd law to cancel the mass and normal force
As I indicated, you need to think about the direction in which the frictional force acts. The car is moving tangentially at some speed v, wheels locked, and skidding. If two surfaces are in sliding contact, which way is the force of friction?
 
The friction force would oppose the direction of the velocity. So it's wrong to have my friction force down the slope of the track?
 
PAstudent said:
The friction force would oppose the direction of the velocity. So it's wrong to have my friction force down the slope of the track?
In case (a), yes, that is wrong.
 
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