SUMMARY
To achieve weightlessness at the top of a 15-meter diameter ferris wheel, the centripetal acceleration must equal the acceleration due to gravity (g). This occurs when the only force acting on the person is gravity, resulting in a state of freefall. The required velocity can be calculated using the formula for centripetal acceleration, where the centripetal acceleration (a_c) equals g (approximately 9.81 m/s²). Therefore, the velocity must be determined such that a_c = v²/r, where r is the radius of the ferris wheel.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of centripetal acceleration
- Basic knowledge of gravitational force
- Familiarity with circular motion equations
- Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
- Calculate centripetal acceleration using the formula a_c = v²/r
- Explore the relationship between velocity and radius in circular motion
- Learn about freefall conditions in physics
- Investigate real-world applications of weightlessness in amusement park rides
USEFUL FOR
Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in the principles of motion and forces in circular dynamics.