Horizontal force on a bicycle dependent on center of mass?

In summary, the conversation discusses the application of force on a bicycle and how it affects the bike's movement. It explains Newton's third law and the concept of torque, using examples such as a bike's tire and a vertical rod. The main question is whether the applied force goes entirely towards horizontal acceleration or if a portion is used to counteract gravity.
  • #1
Imperial Sky
4
0
Hello!

If I pedal a bicycle, where is the force that moves the bike forward horizontally applied?
Is it the bottom of the back wheel or the center of the back wheel?

When the force applied to that point is F, does all that force goes into horizontal acceleration, or does some of that force go vertically agaisnt gravity, because there is an angle between the horizontal force and the center of mass? Would the actual horizontal force then be F*cos(a) ?

If anyone could help I would be thankful.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Newton third law pairs: at the contact patch, the tire exerts a backwads force onto the ground, the ground exerts a forward force onto the bike. At the tire's axle, the tire's axle exerts a forward force onto the bike, the bike exerts a backwards force onto the tire's axle (the bike may be accelerating).

There's also a torque at the rear wheel. This may result in a wheelie, but the forwards force on the bike remains the same, even it the force vector does not go through the center of mass of the bike.

Another example of this is a horizontal force applied to the end of a veritcal rod in space, absent any other forces. The linear motion follows Netwon's law, force = mass x acceleration or acceleration = force / mass, even if the force is not applied at the center. Since the other part of the Newton third last pair is a reaction force, then in order to generate that force at the end of the rod, the point of contact experiences a greater amount of acceleration since it rotates while the center of mass accelerates horizontally.
 

Related to Horizontal force on a bicycle dependent on center of mass?

1. How does the center of mass affect the stability of a bicycle?

The center of mass is an important factor in determining the stability of a bicycle. If the center of mass is too high, the bike will be more prone to tipping over. However, if the center of mass is lower, the bike will have better stability and be less likely to tip over.

2. Does the rider's position on the bicycle affect the horizontal force?

Yes, the rider's position on the bicycle can affect the horizontal force. If the rider's center of mass is too far forward or backward, it can cause the bike to become unbalanced and require more force to maintain stability. The ideal position is for the rider's center of mass to be directly above the center of mass of the bicycle.

3. How does the road surface impact the horizontal force on a bicycle?

The road surface can greatly affect the horizontal force on a bicycle. On a smooth and flat surface, the bike will require less force to maintain stability. However, on a rough or uneven surface, the bike may require more force to overcome bumps and obstacles.

4. Is there a maximum horizontal force that a bicycle can withstand?

There is no specific maximum horizontal force that a bicycle can withstand. The amount of force a bike can handle depends on various factors such as the design and materials of the bike, the rider's weight, and the speed at which the bike is traveling. However, exceeding the recommended weight limit or riding at high speeds can put excessive strain on the bike and potentially cause damage.

5. Can adjusting the center of mass on a bicycle improve its performance?

Yes, adjusting the center of mass on a bicycle can improve its performance. By adjusting the position of the rider and any additional weight on the bike, the center of mass can be shifted to improve stability and control. This can be especially beneficial for more advanced riders looking to optimize their bike's performance for different terrains or riding styles.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
292
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
379
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
106
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
820
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
41
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • Classical Physics
2
Replies
51
Views
2K
Back
Top