Tangential force acting on a skier has been set to zero?

In summary, the conversation discusses the setting of the sum of Ft to 0 and the neglect of frictional forces on a smooth slope. The participants also question the variation of weight along the direction of motion on a curved slope and the slope at point A on a parabola. The final conclusion is that the slope at point A is 0, resulting in a component of weight along the slope also being 0.
  • #1
influx
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ImageUploadedByPhysics Forums1429105336.384128.jpg


Can anyone explain why sum of Ft has been set to be = 0? The slope is smooth so no frictional forces act but by setting it to 0 they are neglecting the component of the weight along the slope? Having said that, this is a curved slope and not a straight one so does the component of the weight along the direction of motion vary continuously (since theta varies?)
 
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  • #2
If it's a parabola what is the slope at point A ?
 
  • #3
CWatters said:
If it's a parabola what is the slope at point A ?
It's 0?
 
  • #4
So what is the "component of weight along the slope" at point A?
 
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Related to Tangential force acting on a skier has been set to zero?

1. What is tangential force?

Tangential force is a force that acts along a tangent to a curved surface or path. In the context of skiing, it refers to the force that is parallel to the surface of the slope.

2. How is tangential force related to skiing?

Tangential force is an important factor in skiing as it affects the acceleration, speed, and direction of the skier. It is also responsible for the skier's ability to turn and maintain balance while skiing.

3. Why would the tangential force acting on a skier be set to zero?

The tangential force acting on a skier may be set to zero in situations where the skier is moving at a constant speed along a straight path, or if they have come to a stop. This means that there is no net force acting on the skier in the direction of the slope.

4. What other forces may still be acting on a skier if the tangential force is set to zero?

Even if the tangential force is set to zero, there may still be other forces acting on the skier. These could include the normal force from the slope, the force of gravity, and air resistance.

5. How does setting the tangential force to zero affect a skier's motion?

Setting the tangential force to zero means that the skier will not accelerate or decelerate in the direction of the slope. They will continue to move at a constant speed or come to a stop, depending on other factors such as friction and air resistance.

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