What is the Solution to the Roller Coaster Apparent Weight Problem?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the apparent weight difference experienced by a rider on a roller coaster during a circular vertical loop, specifically noting a difference of 6 g's between the top and bottom of the loop. The analysis confirms that this difference is independent of the loop's size or the speed of the coaster, provided the speed exceeds the minimum required. Key concepts include centripetal force and the equations of motion relevant to the scenario, which are essential for understanding the forces at play.

PREREQUISITES
  • Centripetal force concepts
  • Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
  • Understanding of gravitational force
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between centripetal force and apparent weight in circular motion
  • Explore the derivation of forces acting on objects in vertical loops
  • Investigate the effects of speed on apparent weight in roller coasters
  • Review MCAT physics problems related to circular motion and forces
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, MCAT candidates, and anyone interested in the mechanics of roller coasters and circular motion dynamics.

joseph harris
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Show that a roller coaster with a circular vertical loop. The difference in your apparent weight at the top of the circular loop and the bottom of the circular loop is 6 g's-that is, six times your weight. Ignore friction. Show also that as long as your speed is above the minimum needed, this answer doesn't depend on the size of the loop or how fast your go through it. I tried solving this but I'm very frustrated can anyone help?:smile:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
We do need to see what you've already tried, so we know you aren't just trying to get an easy answer out of us.

A quick hint, though - have you considered the centripetal force necessary, and where that force is going to come from? It'll be different at the top of the loop and at the bottom.
 
Pls explain what you tried and where you got stuck.
 
Diane,

I have used the relationship of: w-MG=MA Solving for w We have W+Mg+MA

W+MG+m(.5g)=3/2mg. I still have not been able to solve. This is not a homework problem but a MCAT review problem. Thanks
 

Similar threads

Speed at the top of an elliptical roller coaster loop
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Why does the speed change at the bottom of the loop-the-loop?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Minimum Speed for a Roller-Coaster Car to Complete a Loop without Seat Belts
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Energy Equation for a Roller Coaster on a Full Circular Loop
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Minimum safe height for a roller coaster
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
6K
Roller coaster rider weight problem
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
5K
A different type of roller coaster loop problem
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
Simulated circular motion on a roller coaster
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Roller Coaster Friction Problem
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
How Fast Will the Roller Coaster Car Be at the Top of the Loop?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K