Physics at the Fair!

In this photo, the fair is in town!  But many of these fair-goers don’t know about the physics happening all around them.  Circular motion is happening right before their eyes!  The ferris wheel and swing ride are two examples of circular motion because both have motion in a circle at a constant speed.

Also, centripetal force is occurring too.  The riders on the swing will be feeling this force since it’s pointing towards the center of rotation.  Riders can feel centripetal force the most at full speed since that’s when the force will be the strongest.

It’s amazing to see physics occur in daily life, even at fun places like the fair!

Friction While Driving

In this picture, cars are driving down a street and are looking for a parking space.  What many of these drivers don’t know is the friction that is occurring right before their eyes.  In order for the cars to move, they need friction between the ground and the tires.  The grooves in the tires mesh with the grooves in the street, which help propel the car forward.  Without friction, all of the cars would be sliding instead of rolling.

Even though friction opposes motion, it isn’t strong enough to stop all motion.  That’s why cars can move.  So the next time you go driving, don’t forget about friction that’s moving you.