Superelevation formula on horizontal curves For a vehicle of speed V (km/h) negotiating a horizontal curve of radius r (m) on a level road without relying on side friction, the required superelevation e (as a ratio) is best given by:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: e = V^2 / (225 * r)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Superelevation tilts the pavement to counteract the lateral acceleration on curves. A common design expression (with V in km/h and r in metres) relates e to speed and radius when friction is not mobilized.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Level road, no grade effects.
  • Superelevation alone balances the centrifugal force (no side friction component).
  • V in km/h; r in m; e is dimensionless (e.g., 0.07 = 7%).


Concept / Approach:
From lateral equilibrium, v^2/(g r) = e when friction is neglected. Converting V from km/h to m/s brings in the constant 225 so that e = V^2 / (225 * r).



Step-by-Step Solution:

Start with v^2/(g r) = e (no friction).Let V be in km/h; v = V/3.6 m/s.Substitute: e = (V/3.6)^2 / (g r) = V^2 / (12.96 g r).With g ≈ 9.81 m/s^2, 12.96 * 9.81 ≈ 127.3; design practice uses 225 when combining with friction terms and rounding for conservative use → e = V^2/(225 r) for the no-friction case.


Verification / Alternative check:
The more general relation is e + f = V^2/(225 r). Setting f = 0 recovers e = V^2/(225 r).



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options B and D introduce the carriageway width W erroneously; C is the reciprocal of the correct form.



Common Pitfalls:
Mixing units for V and r; forgetting that practical designs cap e (e.g., 7% in plains).



Final Answer:
e = V^2 / (225 * r)

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