BJducky
Nov7-08, 02:10 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A skier of mass m starts from rest at the top of a solid sphere of radius r and slides down its frictionless surface. At what angle (theta) will the skier leave the sphere? And if friction were present, would the skier fly off at a greater or lesser angle?
2. Relevant equations
I am assuming that we will use the conservation of energy, perhaps mgh=1/2mv^2. Something like that?
3. The attempt at a solution
Honestly, I am completely at a loss. I tried to approach this problem with some of the formulas in the book but could not figure it out. Please help me.
A skier of mass m starts from rest at the top of a solid sphere of radius r and slides down its frictionless surface. At what angle (theta) will the skier leave the sphere? And if friction were present, would the skier fly off at a greater or lesser angle?
2. Relevant equations
I am assuming that we will use the conservation of energy, perhaps mgh=1/2mv^2. Something like that?
3. The attempt at a solution
Honestly, I am completely at a loss. I tried to approach this problem with some of the formulas in the book but could not figure it out. Please help me.