Superelevation

[Phantom PE]

The purpose of superelevation is to counterbalance:

(a) lateral wind forces

(b) centripetal force

© gravitational force

(d) frictional force between tires and pavement

To me this has no correct answer, but the answer says its centripetal force. I thought it counterbalances centrifugal force. Anybody else thinking this?

 

[IlPadrino]

Centrifugal force is not "real", so superelevation certainly can't counterbalance it! That's about all I remember about the difference between centrifugal and centripetal other than it's something to do with the frame of reference. Regardless, you know it's not a), c), or d)... so b) is the best answer.

 

[ptatohed]

The purpose of superelevation is to counterbalance:

(a) lateral wind forces

(b) centripetal force

© gravitational force

(d) frictional force between tires and pavement

To me this has no correct answer, but the answer says its centripetal force. I thought it counterbalances centrifugal force. Anybody else thinking this?

See the AASHTO GDHS, 6th Ed, pg 3-18, last paragraph. "When a vehicle moves in a circular path,..."

 

[Phantom PE]

Yeah, I think I have learned the errors of my ways...