Solving the Circular Motion Puzzle: A Bus Coming to a Stop

In summary, the conversation discusses a question about non-circular motion and whether the correct answer is the Earth revolving around the sun or the bus coming to a stop. The answer key states that the correct answer is the bus, but there is some confusion and discussion about it. The question could have been clearer and the answer ultimately depends on one's interpretation of the question.
  • #1
temaire
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Homework Statement


http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/7256/circularhn0.png​
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Homework Equations


None.


The Attempt at a Solution


The answer key says that the answer is the bus coming to a stop. I think this is the answer because the wheels of the bus are slowing down. Is this the right answer, because a lot of people in my class thought that the answer was the Earth revolving the sun, even though the Earth revolves around the sun in an elliptical orbit and not a circular one.
 
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  • #2
The bus option is not clear as it should have probably stated the bus' wheels while coming to a stop. From the question however you should have been able to guess from the term non-circular motion. Of course, the Earth being in an elliptic orbit means its not in uniform or non-uniform circular motion since the common condition for both is that there must be circular motion.
 
  • #3
So you're saying that the answer is B? Or is it just a bad question?
 
  • #4
The answer is A and the question could have been clearer.
 

Related to Solving the Circular Motion Puzzle: A Bus Coming to a Stop

1. What is circular motion and how is it related to a bus coming to a stop?

Circular motion is the movement of an object along a circular path. In the case of a bus coming to a stop, it is related to circular motion because the bus is following a circular path as it turns and slows down to come to a stop.

2. What are the forces involved in a bus coming to a stop?

The main forces involved in a bus coming to a stop are friction and centripetal force. Friction is the force that opposes the motion of the bus and causes it to slow down, while centripetal force is the force that keeps the bus moving in a circular path.

3. How does the bus's speed and radius of curvature affect its stopping distance?

The bus's speed and radius of curvature have a direct impact on its stopping distance. A higher speed or a tighter radius of curvature will result in a longer stopping distance, while a lower speed or a wider radius of curvature will result in a shorter stopping distance.

4. What role does the bus's brakes play in solving the circular motion puzzle?

The bus's brakes play a crucial role in solving the circular motion puzzle. By applying the brakes, the bus's wheels experience a friction force that helps slow down the bus and bring it to a stop.

5. How can understanding circular motion help in solving real-world problems like a bus coming to a stop?

Understanding circular motion can help in solving real-world problems like a bus coming to a stop by providing insights into the forces involved and how they affect the motion of the bus. It can also help in optimizing the bus's braking system to ensure a safe and efficient stop.

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