Equilibrium of a constant speed

In summary, the conversation discusses a model airplane with a mass of 0.90 kg moving at a constant speed on a circular path parallel to the ground. The plane is in equilibrium because the weight is balanced by the lift generated by its wings. The net force and centripetal force are discussed, with the conclusion that the centripetal force is not zero in this case. The centripetal force is calculated using the equation F = mv^2/r.
  • #1
layla2525
19
0

Homework Statement



The model airplane in Figure 5.6 has a mass of 0.90 kg and moves at a constant speed on a circle that is parallel to the ground. The path of the airplane and its guideline lie in the same horizontal plane, because the weight of the plane is balanced by the lift generated by its wings. Length is 17 m. and speeds of 19 and 38.



The toy plane goes around in a circle that is parallel to the ground, at constant speed. Is the plane in equilibrium?


Homework Equations






The Attempt at a Solution



I know that having a net force of zero or centripetal force of zero allows to be at equilibrium.

The centripetal force is also directed toward the center of the circle and net force is the vector sum of all the force components that point along the radial direction.
 

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  • #2
layla2525 said:

Homework Statement



The model airplane in Figure 5.6 has a mass of 0.90 kg and moves at a constant speed on a circle that is parallel to the ground. The path of the airplane and its guideline lie in the same horizontal plane, because the weight of the plane is balanced by the lift generated by its wings. Length is 17 m. and speeds of 19 and 38.



The toy plane goes around in a circle that is parallel to the ground, at constant speed. Is the plane in equilibrium?


Homework Equations






The Attempt at a Solution



I know that having a net force of zero or centripetal force of zero allows to be at equilibrium.

The centripetal force is also directed toward the center of the circle and net force is the vector sum of all the force components that point along the radial direction.
Is the centripetal force 0??
 
  • #3
TO get the centripetal force I used to equation F=(mV)/r

and I got 100 and 201... So it is not in equilibrium ?
 
  • #4
I don't know why you have 2 speeds...2 different cases? Anyway, if a net force is being applied to an object, can it be in equilibrium? BTW, the centripetal force is mv^2/r, the tension in the cable in this example.
 
  • #5
Since the weight and lift forces are balanced and the plane is moving at a constant speed, the net force is equal to zero and the plane is in equilibrium. This is because the forces acting on the plane are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, resulting in a net force of zero. Therefore, the plane is in a state of equilibrium while moving at a constant speed on a circular path.
 

FAQ: Equilibrium of a constant speed

1. What is equilibrium of a constant speed?

Equilibrium of a constant speed refers to a state in which an object is moving at a constant speed without any acceleration. This means that the object's velocity remains the same over time.

2. What factors affect the equilibrium of a constant speed?

The equilibrium of a constant speed can be affected by factors such as friction, air resistance, and the force applied to the object. These factors can either increase or decrease the object's speed, causing it to no longer be in equilibrium.

3. How is equilibrium of a constant speed different from equilibrium of a constant velocity?

While both terms refer to a state of balance in the object's motion, equilibrium of a constant speed specifically refers to an object's speed remaining constant, while equilibrium of a constant velocity refers to both the speed and direction of the object remaining constant.

4. Can equilibrium of a constant speed be maintained indefinitely?

In theory, yes, an object can maintain equilibrium of a constant speed indefinitely if there are no external factors affecting its motion. However, in the real world, it is difficult to achieve perfect equilibrium due to the presence of friction and other forces.

5. How is the equilibrium of a constant speed calculated?

The equilibrium of a constant speed is calculated by dividing the distance traveled by the time it took to travel that distance. This will give the average speed of the object, which will be constant if the object is in equilibrium.

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