Question

A Ferris wheel 72 feet in diameter makes one revolution every 122 sec. The center of the wheel is 50 feet above the ground. Let’s assume the passengers start the ride at time t = 0 seconds at the lowest point on the ride. Consider the periodic function that models the height of a passenger on the Ferris wheel over time

Answer 1

The forces acting on the Ferris wheel system are gravity and the normal force. These forces do not affect the angular velocity and angular momentum of the system.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the Ferris wheel begins to turn, there are two main forces acting on the system: the force of gravity and the normal force.

The force of gravity acts vertically downwards, pulling the people towards the ground.

This force affects the height of the passengers on the Ferris wheel, as it determines their distance from the ground.

The normal force, also acting vertically upwards, is exerted by the chairs or seats of the Ferris wheel on the passengers.

This force counteracts the force of gravity and keeps the passengers from falling out.

These forces do not affect the angular velocity and angular momentum of the system.

Angular velocity is determined by the rotational speed of the Ferris wheel, while angular momentum is determined by the moment of inertia and the angular velocity.

The forces only affect the vertical position of the passengers, not their rotational motion.