Maximum speed of car round banked bend

In summary, the maximum velocity for a car with mass m to travel around a bend with a radius of 44m on a banked road at an angle \alpha (where tan\alpha=3/4) with a coefficient of friction \mu=0.6 without sliding up the banked road is 27.2m/s. This is determined by taking the components of the forces along and normal to the slope and using the formula v^2/r = g[sin(theta) + kcos(theta)]/[cos(theta) - ksin(theta)], which simplifies to v = 32.5 m/s.
  • #1
jaderberg
30
0

Homework Statement


Car mass m drives round a bend in a circular arc radius 44m with the road banked at an angle [tex]\alpha[/tex] where tan[tex]\alpha[/tex]=3/4. The coefficient of friction [tex]\mu[/tex]=0.6 of the car with the road. What is the maximum velocity the car can travel at without sliding up the banked road?

Homework Equations


F=ma F=mv^2/r Friction(max)=[tex]\mu[/tex]r
3^2 + 4^2= 5^2

The Attempt at a Solution


The normal reaction force R perpendicular to the bank will be mgcos[tex]\alpha[/tex]
R=0.8mg

Component of R towards teh center of horizontal circle = R/sin[tex]\alpha[/tex] = mg4/3

mv^2/r= 0.6x0.8mgxcos[tex]\alpha[/tex] + mg4/3
v^2/44=0.384g +g4/3
V=27.2m/s

I've always struggled with this type of question due to taking the wrong components for reaction forces etc so would greatly appreciate any help to see if this is right.

cheers
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Take the components of the forces along and normal to the slope. It'll seem easier. Draw the freebody diagram. At the maximum speed, the static frcition force along the slope is max.

(Don't plug in numbers to make it messy -- use symbols.)
 
  • #3
Yeah i know...this was actually in a test i did this morning so i did draw out everything. Basically this was the answer i did in the test and I still stand by after working through it again but was just wanting to see if it was actually right
 
  • #4
After simplification,

v^2/r
= g[sin(theta) + kcos(theta)]/[cos(theta) - ksin(theta)]
= g[tan(theta) + k]/[1 - ktan(theta)],

which gives me v = 32.5 m/s.

(Sorry...)
 
Last edited:
  • #5
ah thanks alot! shame i didnt get it right tho lol
 

FAQ: Maximum speed of car round banked bend

What factors affect the maximum speed of a car round a banked bend?

The main factors that affect the maximum speed of a car round a banked bend include the angle of the bank, the radius of the bend, the weight and distribution of the car, the coefficient of friction of the tires, and the speed at which the car enters the bend.

How does the angle of the bank affect the maximum speed?

The angle of the bank plays a crucial role in determining the maximum speed of a car round a banked bend. A steeper bank will allow the car to take the bend at a higher speed, as it helps counteract the centrifugal force that pushes the car outwards. However, if the bank angle is too steep, the car may lose contact with the road surface and potentially roll over.

Can the maximum speed of a car round a banked bend be calculated?

Yes, the maximum speed of a car round a banked bend can be calculated using the formula Vmax = √(rgtanθ), where Vmax is the maximum speed, r is the radius of the bend, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle of the bank.

How does the weight and distribution of the car affect the maximum speed?

The weight and distribution of the car also play a crucial role in determining the maximum speed around a banked bend. A heavier car will have more inertia, making it harder to change direction, while a well-distributed weight will help maintain stability and traction. This can ultimately affect the car's maximum speed around a banked bend.

Is there a limit to the maximum speed a car can take round a banked bend?

Yes, there is a limit to the maximum speed a car can take round a banked bend. This limit is determined by the factors mentioned above, as well as the design and capabilities of the car. Going beyond this limit can result in loss of control and potentially lead to accidents.

Back
Top