What provides the force when a car makes a turn? (This is dealing with centripetal force)
There is a force from the tires on the wheels pushing the car toward the center of the turn (F = m v^2/R). Note that if your tires are worn out and the road is slippery, you can not hold the turn.
I mean from the road on the tires.
To understand what provides the force when a car makes a turn, you need to consider the concept of centripetal force. Centripetal force is the force that keeps an object moving in a curved path and is directed toward the center of the curve. In the case of a car making a turn, the centripetal force is provided by the friction between the tires of the car and the road.
Here's how you can better understand this concept:
1. Start with the basics: When a car moves in a straight line, the force propelling it forward is provided by the engine. This force is transmitted to the car's wheels, which then push against the road. As a result, the car accelerates and maintains its speed.
2. Introduce the concept of turning: When a car makes a turn, it needs to change its direction, which means it must accelerate sideways. This sideways acceleration requires a force that can change the car's velocity.
3. Consider the role of friction: Friction is the force that opposes relative motion between two surfaces in contact. In the case of a car making a turn, friction between the tires and the road surface provides the necessary centripetal force. The tires push against the road in the direction opposite to the turn, creating a frictional force that prevents the car from skidding out of the turn.
4. Understand the relationship between speed and friction: The amount of centripetal force required for a car to make a turn depends on its speed and the sharpness of the turn. Higher speeds or sharper turns require greater centripetal forces, which means the friction between the tires and the road needs to be stronger to maintain the turn.
In summary, when a car makes a turn, the centripetal force required to keep it moving in a curved path is provided by friction between the tires and the road surface. This frictional force opposes the car's tendency to move in a straight line and allows it to safely navigate the turn.