Question Detail
Question
A car is traveling at a constant speed around a flat, unbanked curve. If the coefficient of static friction between the tires and the road is μ, what is the maximum centripetal acceleration the car can achieve without skidding?
Correct Answer
Option A is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
The maximum frictional force is μmg. This provides the centripetal force, so F_c = m a_c = μmg. Canceling m gives the maximum centripetal acceleration a_c = μg.
Hint
Centripetal force equals mass times centripetal acceleration. Set this equal to the maximum static friction force and solve for acceleration.