Question

Jack sits in the chair of a Ferris wheel that is rotating at a constant 0.120 rev/s . As Jack passes through the highest point of his circular part, the upward force that the chair exerts on him is equal to one-fourth of his weight.

Answer 1

Answer:

Explanation:

0.120 rev/s(2π rad/rev) = 0.24π rad/s

At the highest point of the arc, gravity must supply the required centripetal acceleration. As the normal force is 1/4 of his normal weight, then 3/4 of gravity acceleration must be used as centripetal acceleration

0.75g = ω²R

R = 0.75(9.81) / (0.24π)²

R = 12.942198...

R = 12.9 m