Coefficient friction between a toboggan and the snow

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the coefficient of friction between a toboggan and snow while considering the forces acting on the system. Given a total mass of 40 kg and a tension of 50 N in the rope at a 30° angle, the horizontal and vertical components of the tension were calculated incorrectly by using 60° instead of the correct angle. The correct approach involves recognizing that the toboggan moves at a constant speed, indicating that the net force is zero, which allows for the application of static friction equations to find the coefficient of friction.

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Homework Statement



Peter is pulling Paul who is on a toboggan, along a rough horizontal snow surface using a rope which makes an angle of 30ᵒ with the horizontal. Paul and the toboggan have a total mass of 40kg and the toboggan is moving with a constant speed in a straight line. Given the tension in the rope is 50N, find the coefficient of friction between the toboggan and the snow.

Homework Equations



Guys i don't have a clue on this one, I've been killing my head on it.

The Attempt at a Solution



this is what i tried:

Fx = Fcos 30o
43.30127019

Fy = Fsin 60o
43.30127019

That's how far i can go.

please help
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Why did you use 60 degrees in your calculation of the vertical component of the applied force?

If the toboggan is not accelerating, what can you say about the forces involved?
 

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