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A cyclist cycling around a circular racing track skids because_____________?

Correct answer: B. the centripetal force upon him is greater than limiting friction

  • A. the centripetal force upon him is less than limiting friction
  • B. the centripetal force upon him is greater than limiting friction
  • C. the centripetal force upon him is equal to the limiting friction
  • D. the friction between the tyres of the cycle and road vanishes

Explanation

For circular motion, static friction supplies the required centripetal force up to its limiting value. The cyclist skids when the required centripetal force becomes greater than the maximum available friction, so the tyres cannot follow the circular path. Students may choose equal to limiting friction because that is the condition just before slipping, whereas actual skidding occurs when the demand exceeds it.

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