A pilot of mass 65 kg in a jet aircraft makes a complete vertical circle in mid-air. The vertical circle has a radius of 1.70 km at a constant speed of 215 m/s. Determine the force of the seat on the pilot at (a) the bottom of the loop and (b) the top of the loop. (Note that at the top of the loop, the aircraft is upside down.)

Question

A pilot of mass 65 kg in a jet aircraft makes a complete vertical circle in mid-air.  The vertical circle has a radius of 1.70 km at a constant speed of 215 m/s.  Determine the force of the seat on the pilot at (a) the bottom of the loop and (b) the top of the loop.  (Note that at the top of the loop, the aircraft is upside down.)
Okay, i know that first i will have to use 1700m as my radius. 
Also, i know the equations i will have to work with (uniform circular motion 
Centripetal Force= mass times velocity squared, all over radius.)
But, am i looking for the Fn (Normal Force) .. 
and ifso, 
Centripetal force will equal force of gravity plus the normal force in both situations, so how will the situations differ? like, is there something i'm missing? 
Please explain, thanks :)

Bob · Answer

42