Tangential and Radial Acceleration

In summary, the problem involves a train slowing down from 90.0km/h to 50.0km/h in 15.0s while rounding a sharp turn with a radius of 150m. The goal is to calculate the acceleration at the moment the train reaches 50.0km/h, assuming it continues to slow down at this rate. The equations needed are Vf = Vi + a*t and Ac = V2 / r, and the two accelerations involved are radially inward and slowing. By using Pythagoras, the correct answer can be obtained.
  • #1
llauren84
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Homework Statement



A train slows down as it rounds a sharp horizontal turn slowing from 90.0km/h to 50.0km/h in the 15.0s that it takes to round the bend. The radius of the curve is 150m. Compute the acceleration at the moment the train reaches 50.0km/her. Assume it continues to slow down at this rate.

Homework Equations



Vf = Vi + a*t
Ac = V2 / r

The Attempt at a Solution



I am totally confused and have to hand in this problem tomorrow and I don't have the textbook to reference.
 
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  • #2
You have the equations, so what is the acceleration for each of the accelerations when it hits 50 km/hr? Linear and radial?

Once you have calculated those values then you would add them as vectors.

One acceleration is radially inward. The other is slowing and so it is trailing.

Since they are ⊥ then just use Pythagoras to get'er done.

Oh, and as usual be careful with your units.
 
  • #3
Thanks, actually that helped. I got the correct answer =) I just had trouble relating the two equations for some reason.
 

Related to Tangential and Radial Acceleration

1. What is tangential acceleration?

Tangential acceleration is the change in the magnitude or direction of an object's velocity as it moves along a curved path. It is always perpendicular to the object's velocity and directed towards the center of the curve.

2. How is tangential acceleration calculated?

Tangential acceleration can be calculated using the formula a = v^2/r, where a is the tangential acceleration, v is the velocity, and r is the radius of the curve.

3. What is radial acceleration?

Radial acceleration is the component of an object's acceleration that is directed towards or away from the center of a circle or curved path. It is perpendicular to both the object's tangential acceleration and velocity.

4. How is radial acceleration related to centripetal acceleration?

Radial acceleration is another term for centripetal acceleration, which is the acceleration towards the center of a circle or curved path. They refer to the same concept and can be calculated using the same formula, a = v^2/r.

5. Can an object have both tangential and radial acceleration?

Yes, an object can have both tangential and radial acceleration if it is moving along a curved path. The tangential acceleration determines the change in speed of the object, while the radial acceleration determines the change in direction towards the center of the curve.

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