Circular Motion — A/L Physics

How do I practise Circular Motion?

1 question with a worked solution

1. A car negotiates an unbanked flat circular road curve of radius 50 m. The coefficient of static friction between the tires and the dry road is 0.50. Taking g = 10 m s⁻², what is the maximum speed at which the car can round the bend without skidding outward?
   1. A) 15.8 m s⁻¹ (approx 16 m s⁻¹)
   2. B) 5.0 m s⁻¹
   3. C) 25.0 m s⁻¹
   4. D) 10.0 m s⁻¹
   Check my answer

   Correct answer: A) 15.8 m s⁻¹ (approx 16 m s⁻¹)

   On an unbanked circular path, the centripetal force is provided solely by static friction: f_s = m v² / r. Maximum friction without slipping is f_max = μ_s mg. Equating gives m v_max² / r = μ_s mg => v_max = √(μ_s g r) = √(0.50 × 10 × 50) = √250 ≈ 15.81 m s⁻¹.

   Show worked solution

   Step 1: Formula for unbanked curve: v_max = √(μ_s · g · r). Step 2: Substitute values: v_max = √(0.50 × 10 × 50) = √250 ≈ 15.8 m s⁻¹. Answer: 15.8 m s⁻¹ (approx 16 m s⁻¹).
   Modelled on: the A/L Physics examination pattern

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Where does Circular Motion fit in the syllabus?

Unit 2.5 · Year 1 · Term 1