Finding Net Force with the Coefficient of Friction

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To find the net force on a 51kg child sliding down a 42-degree slide with a coefficient of friction of 0.10, the normal force (Fn) is calculated as 379 N. The frictional force opposing the motion is determined to be 38 N. The net force acting on the child is the difference between the gravitational component down the slide and the frictional force. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the forces at play, including gravity and friction, to solve for net force. This approach is essential for determining how far the child will slide before reaching a speed of 2.5 m/s.
triamanda
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Homework Statement


A 51kg child goes down a 42 degree slide. What is the normal force on him? If the coefficient of friction is .10, what is the net force on him? How far down does he slide before reaching 2.5 m/s?

Homework Equations



Fk = μFn
F = ma

The Attempt at a Solution



Fn = 51gcos(42)
= 379 N

I have no idea what to do to find the net force.
 
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the component of the child's weights acts down the plane. Friction acts up the plane.

Also for a normal force N, the frictional force is given by μN.

Can you find the resultant force now?
 
I believe so:
.10(379) = 38 N

Thanks!
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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