What is the Apparent Weight on a Ferris Wheel?

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In summary, when riding a ferris wheel with a radius of 7.2 meters and completing one revolution every 28 seconds, your apparent weight will be different at the top and bottom. At the top, your apparent weight can be calculated using Fn - mg + Fc = 0, while at the bottom it can be calculated using Fn - mg - Fc = 0, where Fn is normal force, mg is the force due to gravity, and Fc is the centripetal force.
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mmajames
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Homework Statement



As you ride on a ferris wheel, your apparent weight is different at the top and bottom. Calculate your apparent weight at the top and bottom of a Ferris wheel, given that the radius of the wheel is 7.2 meters, it completes one revolution every 28 seconds, and your mass is 55kg.

Homework Equations



Any circular motion equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't even know where to start
 
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  • #2
When the circle is below you, Fn - mg - Fc = 0. Where Fn is normal force and Fc is centripetal force.
Fn - mg + Fc = 0 when the circle is above you.
 

FAQ: What is the Apparent Weight on a Ferris Wheel?

How does weight change at different heights?

As you move further away from the Earth's surface, the pull of gravity decreases, resulting in a decrease in weight. This is because the Earth's mass is concentrated at its center, so the farther away an object is from the center, the less gravitational force it experiences.

Is there a specific formula for calculating weight at different heights?

Yes, the formula is W = mg, where W is weight, m is mass, and g is the acceleration due to gravity. However, this formula assumes that the object is located on the Earth's surface. To calculate weight at different heights, the formula can be modified to include the distance from the Earth's center.

How does weight at different heights affect human health?

The change in weight at different heights can have significant effects on human health, especially for individuals who live at high altitudes. The decrease in gravitational force can lead to a decrease in bone density and muscle mass, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and other health issues.

Does weight change at different heights on other planets?

Yes, weight changes at different heights on other planets due to their varying masses and sizes. For example, on Mars, the gravitational force is about 38% of that on Earth, so a person would weigh less on Mars than they do on Earth at the same height.

Is there a limit to how high an object can be and still have weight?

Technically, there is no limit to how high an object can be and still have weight, as long as it is within the gravitational pull of a massive object. However, as an object moves further away from these massive objects, the gravitational force decreases and the weight becomes negligible.

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