All Flashcards
In a roller coaster at the top of a loop, which direction do the normal force (Fn) and gravity (Fg) point?
Both normal force (Fn) and gravity (Fg) point downwards (towards the center of the circle).
In a roller coaster at the bottom of a loop, which direction do the normal force (Fn) and gravity (Fg) point?
Normal force (Fn) points upwards (towards the center), gravity (Fg) points downwards.
In a roller coaster at the side of a loop, which direction do the normal force (Fn) and gravity (Fg) point?
Normal force (Fn) points towards the center of the circle (left or right), gravity (Fg) points downwards.
What are the steps to drawing an FBD?
- Represent the object as a dot. 2. Draw arrows outward from the dot to represent forces. 3. Label each force.
How do you choose a coordinate system for circular motion FBDs?
Choose a coordinate system where the positive x or y axis points towards the center of the circle.
What is the process for analyzing forces at the top of a loop in a roller coaster problem?
- Identify that both normal force and gravity point downwards. 2. Write the net force equation: Fnet = Fn + Fg.
What is the process for analyzing forces at the bottom of a loop in a roller coaster problem?
- Identify that normal force points upwards and gravity points downwards. 2. Recognize that normal force is greater than gravity. 3. Write the net force equation: Fnet = Fn - Fg.
What is the process for analyzing forces at the sides of a loop in a roller coaster problem?
- Identify that normal force points towards the center and gravity points downwards. 2. Recognize that normal force provides the centripetal force. 3. Write the net force equation: Fnet = Fn.
What is a Free Body Diagram (FBD)?
A visual tool showing all forces acting on an object.
What is centripetal force?
The net force that points towards the center of the circle, causing an object to move in a circular path.
Define normal force.
The force exerted by a surface on an object in contact with it, usually perpendicular to the surface.
What is apparent weight?
How heavy you 'feel', which is related to the normal force acting on you.
Define weight force.
The force of gravity acting on an object, always pointing downwards towards the Earth.