Force of the track on a rollercoaster

In summary, the conversation discusses the downward force of rails on a roller coaster car as it reaches the top of a loop. Using the equation f=mv^2/r, the force is calculated to be 3.14 x 10^4 Newtons. However, it is important to note that normal force and weight are the only forces acting on the car, not acceleration.
  • #1
Rasine
208
0
a roller coster car of mass 1500 kg starts at a distance of H=23m above the bottom of the loop 15 m in diameter. if friction is negligible, what is the downward force of the rails on the can when it is upside down at the top of the loop?

so what i was thinking is this:

f=ma and in this case a=v^2/r so i have ...

f=mv^2/r and i know what m and r are so i need to find v

ei=ef
mgh=mgh+.5mv^2
1500(9.8)23=1500(9.8)15+.5(1500)v^2

v^2=156.8

then i put this into f=mv^2/r and f=3.14 x10^4


is that right?
 
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  • #2
Note that f=mv^2/r gives the net force, but that you are asked to find the force of the rails on the car. (What other force acts on the car?)
 
  • #3
the forces that act on the car are: normal force, weight, acceleration
 
  • #4
Normal force and weight are the two forces acting on the car. Acceleration is not a force!
 

Related to Force of the track on a rollercoaster

1. What is the force of the track on a rollercoaster?

The force of the track on a rollercoaster refers to the amount of force that the track exerts on the rollercoaster as it moves along the track. This force is a combination of the normal force, which is the force perpendicular to the track that keeps the rollercoaster from falling through the track, and the frictional force, which is the force that resists the motion of the rollercoaster along the track.

2. How does the force of the track affect the speed of the rollercoaster?

The force of the track plays a crucial role in determining the speed of the rollercoaster. As the rollercoaster moves along the track, the track exerts a force on the rollercoaster that accelerates it. The greater the force of the track, the faster the rollercoaster will move along the track. However, if the force of the track is too great, it can cause the rollercoaster to derail or lose control.

3. What factors influence the force of the track on a rollercoaster?

The force of the track on a rollercoaster is influenced by several factors, including the shape and angle of the track, the weight and speed of the rollercoaster, and the presence of any external forces such as air resistance. The track is usually designed to provide enough force to keep the rollercoaster on the track without causing it to go too fast or too slow.

4. Can the force of the track be adjusted on a rollercoaster?

Yes, the force of the track can be adjusted on a rollercoaster. This is usually done through the design and construction of the track itself, as well as the use of various mechanisms such as brakes and banking turns. The force of the track can also be adjusted by changing the weight or speed of the rollercoaster.

5. How does the force of the track on a rollercoaster impact the safety of the ride?

The force of the track is a crucial factor in ensuring the safety of a rollercoaster ride. If the force of the track is too weak, the rollercoaster may not have enough speed to make it through the entire ride or may even come to a complete stop. On the other hand, if the force of the track is too strong, it can cause the rollercoaster to go too fast and potentially derail. It is important for rollercoaster designers to carefully consider the force of the track in order to create a safe and enjoyable ride for passengers.

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