What is the safe speed limit for a car on a curved highway?

In summary, the maximum safe speed for a car to negotiate a curve with a radius of 55m and a maximum static friction force of 8740N is 24.59m/s.
  • #1
jimmyboykun
39
0

Homework Statement


On a highway curve with radius 55m, the maximum force of static friction that can act on a 795kg car going around the curve is 8740N. What speed limit should be posted for the curve so that cars can negotiate is safely?


Homework Equations


ƩF=ma, a=v^2/r


The Attempt at a Solution



8740N=795kg(v^2/55m)

8740N= 4375m*kg(v^2)

0.200m/s= v^2

v=0.144m/s

it looks like I performed my math correctly, but I need a second opinion. The solution that I solved does not appear in the answer choices of my practice exam.
 
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  • #2
the answer choices are
A) 241.23m/s
B)10.99m/s
C)7798.95m/s
D)604.65m/s
E)24.59m/s
 
  • #3
It is D)

m v2 / r = F

v = √(98740.55/795) = 604.65408805031446540880503144654 :wink:
 
  • #4
thanks, but where did I go wrong with my math? everytime I isolate v I get letter E
 
  • #5
Mentz114 said:
It is D)

m v2 / r = F

v = √(98740.55/795) = 604.65408805031446540880503144654 :wink:

Thanks, but I believe the velocity that you gave did not work, :( 11.14 would be the velocity.

Here's what I did, 8740N*55/795 = v^2

v = 24.59m/s
 

Related to What is the safe speed limit for a car on a curved highway?

What is the speed of a car on a curve bank?

The speed of a car on a curve bank depends on various factors such as the angle of the curve, the friction between the tires and the road, and the mass of the car. Generally, the speed will decrease as the angle of the curve increases.

How does the angle of the curve affect the speed of a car?

The angle of the curve plays a significant role in determining the speed of a car on a curve bank. As the angle increases, the speed decreases because the car needs to travel a longer distance to complete the curve.

What is the role of friction in the speed of a car on a curve bank?

Friction is crucial in keeping the car on the road and preventing it from sliding off the curve. It also helps in slowing down the car as it turns, thus reducing the speed.

Does the mass of the car affect its speed on a curve bank?

Yes, the mass of the car affects its speed on a curve bank. A heavier car will have more inertia and will require more force to change its speed and direction, making it slower on a curve compared to a lighter car.

How can the speed of a car on a curve bank be calculated?

The speed of a car on a curve bank can be calculated using the formula v = √(rg tanθ), where v is the speed, r is the radius of the curve, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle of the curve.

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