Question

What is banking of road? Why is banking necessary for a curved road?

Answer 1

Hint: The process of raising the outer edge of the curved road above the inner edge is known as banking of roads by doing so the vehicle can go round the curved track at a reasonable speed without skidding.

Complete step by step answer:

When a vehicle goes round a curved road, it requires some centripetal force. While rounding the curve, the wheels of the vehicle have a tendency to leave the curved path and regain its original path i.e., straight line. Now the force of friction between wheels and the roads opposes this tendency. This force of friction therefore, acts towards the centre of the circular track and provides the necessary centripetal force (shown by the diagram).

On observing this situation, we find that the maximum permissible velocity with which a vehicle can go round a level curved road depends on ‘μ’ i.e., the coefficient of friction between tyres and road.

The value of ‘μ’ decreases when the road is wet or extra smooth or tyres of the vehicle are worn out. So, we can say that the force of friction is not a reliable source for providing the required centripetal force to the vehicle.

Now, if we made any attempt to run it at a greater speed, the vehicle is likely to skid and go out of track. In order that the vehicle can go round the curved track at a reasonable speed without skidding, the sufficient centripetal force is managed for it by raising the outer edge of the track a little above the inner edge. This process is called the banking of the circular track or banking of roads.

Note: Students should understand the concept of banking of roads thoroughly because by doing so they will become more skilled in solving problems of mechanics. Students should keep in mind that the concept of banking of the road can be better understood with the previous knowledge of centripetal force and frictional force.