Solving Distance Traveled Using Coefficient of Friction

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving the coefficient of friction, initial velocity, and the calculation of distance traveled. Participants are exploring the relationship between these variables and the equations of motion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to use the kinematic equation vf^2=vi^2+2a(xf-xi) but questions the role of the coefficient of friction. Other participants inquire about the meaning of the acceleration 'a' and discuss the relevance of frictional forces in the context of the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants questioning assumptions about acceleration and the role of mass in the equations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the force of friction and its relationship to the normal force, prompting further exploration of these concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion about the equations presented in their coursework, indicating a potential lack of clarity in the material related to friction and motion.

idontspeakmath
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if you are given the coefficient of friction, initial velocity, and asked for the distance traveled, how would you do it? my first instinct is to use the vf^2=vi^2+2a(xf-xi), but i don't think that coefficient of friction is hanging out there for no reason?
 
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You're right - it's not hanging out there for no reason!

What, exactly, is the quantity a you wrote in your equation?
 
i was assuming a=9.8, but i guess that was bad physics.
i'm tempted to relate this to f=ma, but there's no mass!

man, the last chapter has twice as many equations as the previous chapters combined. :(
 
Presumably, somewhere in that chapter, there was discussion of the force of friction. Does this ring a bell? [itex]F_f = \mu F_n[/itex], i.e. the frictional force is proportional to the normal force. Can you guess what the proportionality constant is? :)
 

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