Edexcel A-Level Physics Centripetal Force Equations

Practise Edexcel A-Level Physics centripetal force equations by calculating resultant force, radius, tension and normal reaction.

Exam points

use F equals mv squared over r or mr omega squared to calculate circular-motion force
combine weight, lift, tension or normal reaction with centripetal force in context
derive circular-motion relationships by resolving forces and substituting period or angular velocity

[Maximum number: 4]

An aeroplane flies in a horizontal circular path whilst waiting to land at an airport.

The aeroplane flies in a horizontal circle by tilting to one side in a movement called 'banking'.

The aeroplane creates an upwards lift force, which acts in a direction perpendicular to its wings.

During banking, the angle between the wings and the horizontal is 5.2°.

Calculate the radius of the circular path when the aeroplane flies at a constant speed of 530 m s^-1.
mass of aeroplane = 4.1 × 10^5 kg

Radius =

Vertical equilibrium gives $L\cos5.2^\circ=mg$ , while the horizontal component supplies centripetal force: $L\sin5.2^\circ=mv^2/r$ . Thus $r=\frac{v^2}{g\tan5.2^\circ}=3.15\times10^5\,\mathrm m,$ about $3.2\times10^5\,\mathrm m$ .

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4.3.91 - Centripetal force equations question 1