High School

A bicyclist of mass 85 kg rides in a circle at a speed of 4.5 m/s. If the radius of the circle is 8 m, what is the centripetal force on the bicyclist?

A. 215 N
B. 92 N
C. 48 N
D. 155 N

Answer :

Final answer:

The centripetal force acting on the bicyclist can be calculated using the formula Fc = (m * v^2) / r. Substituting the given values, the centripetal force is 215.625 N. Therefore, the correct answer is option a. 215 N.

Explanation:

The centripetal force acting on a bicyclist in a circular motion can be calculated using the formula:

Fc = (m * v2) / r

Where:

  • Fc is the centripetal force
  • m is the mass of the bicyclist
  • v is the speed of the bicyclist
  • r is the radius of the circle

Substituting the given values:

  • m = 85 kg
  • v = 4.5 m/s
  • r = 8 m

Plugging in the values, the centripetal force is:

Fc = (85 kg * (4.5 m/s)2) / 8 m

Simplifying the equation:

Fc = 215.625 N

Therefore, the correct answer is option a. 215 N.