A Ferris wheel with a radius of 8.00 m rotates at a constant rate, completing one revolution in 30.0 s. What is the apparent weight of a 60.0-kg passenger when she is at the top of the wheel?
A) 589 N
B) 568 N
C) 615 N
D) 325 N
E) 432 N

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At the top of the Ferris wheel, the apparent weight is the gravitational force minus the centripetal force. The gravitational force is 60.0 kg * 9.8 m/s² = 588 N. The centripetal force is (60.0 kg * (2π * 8.00 m / 30.0 s)²) / 8.00 m = 20 N. Thus, the apparent weight is 588 N - 20 N = 568 N.

A Ferris Wheel with a Radius of 8