How Accurate Is the Calculated Friction Force for a Sled Sliding Down a Hill?

In summary, the problem involves finding the average friction force on a 60 kg sled that goes down a 500 meter slope with a height of 10 meters. Using the equations Ft=mv-mv0 and t=S/v, the average friction force is calculated to be 3.84 N. This force acts in the opposite direction of the weight (mg) which is 600 N. The 10 meter height of the slope is not used in the calculation. The resulting equation is 600-friction=3.84.
  • #1
AlexPilk
26
0

Homework Statement


The length of a slope is 500 meters and it's height is 10 meters. 60 kg sled went down the slope. Find the average friction force if it's speed in the end = 8 m/s (the starting speed = 0)

Homework Equations


Ft=mv-mv0
t=S/v

The Attempt at a Solution


Ft=mv-mv0=60*8=480
Average speed = (8+0)/2=4
t=500/4=125
F=480/125=3.84 N
Weight=mg=600
600-friction=3.84
friction=596.16 N

Is it correct?
 
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  • #2
AlexPilk said:
F=480/125=3.84 N
Weight=mg=600
600-friction=3.84
You have calculated a propulsive force (F), right?
What direction does that act in?
What direction does mg act in?
(You might have noticed that you have not used the 10m height.)
 
  • #3
haruspex said:
You have calculated a propulsive force (F), right?
What direction does that act in?
What direction does mg act in?
(You might have noticed that you have not used the 10m height.)
1.I think so, it's the force that accelerates the sled
2.Downwards
3. I do not really see use for the height of the slope

It looks like it makes sense, since I know the mass and acceleration I can calculate the overall force F, and friction works against mg, so the equation is correct, right?
 
  • #4
AlexPilk said:
2.Downwards
As in vertically down? You obtained it by dividing momentum by time. What direction was the momentum in?
 
  • #5


I would first clarify the units being used for the given values. Assuming that the mass of the sled is in kilograms and the length and height of the slope are in meters, the units for the average friction force should be in Newtons (N). Therefore, the calculated value of 3.84 N for the average friction force is correct. However, the weight of the sled should be in Newtons as well, which would be 600 N. The equation for calculating friction should also include the coefficient of friction, which is a dimensionless quantity that represents the amount of resistance between two surfaces. Without this value, it is difficult to determine the exact force of friction acting on the sled. Additionally, the equation used to calculate the average friction force is not entirely accurate, as it assumes a constant force over the entire length of the slope. In reality, the force of friction would likely vary throughout the sled's descent. Therefore, while the calculated value may be an estimate, it is not entirely accurate. As a scientist, it would be important to also consider the effects of air resistance and other external factors on the sled's descent.
 

1. How does the weight of the sled affect its speed down the hill?

The weight of the sled does not have a significant impact on its speed down the hill. The main factors that affect the speed are the angle of the hill, the surface conditions, and any external forces such as friction or wind.

2. What is the role of friction in the sled's movement down the hill?

Friction plays a crucial role in the movement of a sled down a hill. It is the force that opposes the motion of the sled and ultimately slows it down. Friction is affected by the surface conditions of the hill, the weight of the sled, and the material of the sled's runners.

3. Can a sled go faster on a steeper hill?

Yes, a sled can go faster on a steeper hill. This is because a steeper hill will provide a greater gravitational force, which will accelerate the sled. However, the steepness of the hill also affects the amount of friction and the sled's control, so there is a limit to how steep the hill can be for a sled to go faster.

4. How does the shape of the sled impact its movement down the hill?

The shape of the sled can significantly impact its movement down the hill. A streamlined and aerodynamic shape will reduce air resistance and allow the sled to go faster. The shape of the runners also plays a role, as sharp and smooth runners will reduce friction and allow the sled to slide more easily.

5. What happens to the sled's speed as it goes down the hill?

The sled's speed will gradually increase as it goes down the hill until it reaches its maximum speed, also known as its terminal velocity. At this point, the gravitational force is balanced by the opposing forces of friction and air resistance, resulting in a constant speed. The speed may decrease if the hill becomes less steep or if there is an increase in friction or wind resistance.

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