Mechanics: Circular Motion and Gravitation

Circular Motion and Gravitation: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 14:

Justin is driving his 1500-kg Camaro through a horizontal curve on a level roadway at a speed of 23 m/s. The turning radius of the curve is 65 m. Determine the minimum value of the coefficient of friction which would be required to keep Justin's car on the curve.

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., m = 61.7 kg, v= 18.5 m/s, R = 30.9 m, Fnorm = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Circular Motion and Gravitation at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

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