Chapter 10, Problem 37A

When a soaring eagle turns during its flight, what is the source of the centripetal force acting on it?

To determine

The source of the centripetal force acting on the eagle while taking a turn.

Answer to Problem 37A

The source of centripetal force for the turning of the eagle is Air Resistance.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction: A circular motion comes with two forces Centripetal and Centrifugal to keep the particle in motion in equilibrium. To keep moving, the body needs to oppose the frictional force as resistance.

While moving forward, the major challenge for Eagle is air. When it takes a turn, it tends to fly in a semi-circular motion. So now it is taking the turn and consecutively flying forward as well. Thus, air is creating resistance on the eagle to move turning-forward motion, which bends the centripetal motion inwards. Thus, it helps the Eagle to turn quickly.

Conclusion: Hence, the source of making turn faster while flying forward is air resistance applied to the wings.