Get Help with Calculating Force on a Hand Pump for Introductory Physics Course

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jamie87
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Physics
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the force required to operate a hand pump, specifically for a mass of 5 kg while considering friction. The user seeks guidance on formulating the appropriate equations to determine this force. Key concepts include understanding Newton's laws of motion and the role of friction in mechanical systems. The conversation highlights the importance of clear problem definition in physics to facilitate accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of friction and its effects on force
  • Knowledge of basic algebra for equation manipulation
  • Introduction to mechanics in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the formula for calculating force: F = m * a (where F is force, m is mass, and a is acceleration)
  • Learn about friction coefficients and how to incorporate them into force calculations
  • Explore examples of mechanical systems involving hand pumps and their force requirements
  • Review introductory physics textbooks or online resources focusing on mechanics and forces
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in introductory physics courses, educators teaching basic mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of force and friction in practical applications.

Jamie87
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hi there, You might hate me for this as I'm completely new to physics.

My university has me taking a side course in Introductory physics. This would be ok if I knew a little about the subject, but I do not. So I'd love for some help with the following:I have been given the task to work out the force needed to push in with a mass of 5kg and pull out on a simple hand pump (pic included). Whilst taking into account the friction when pushing in.

[PLAIN]http://www.awcycles.co.uk/images/blackburn/mynAir3.jpg

Now I am not asking for this to be done for me. All I'm asking is just some help on how I start the equation/formula. As I am unsure where to start.

Any help is apreciated. Many Thanks. :smile:
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
The question is a bit confusing to me sorry.
You want the "force needed to push in with a mass of 5kg"? Could you please try and elaborate on this part or rephrase it?
 

Similar threads

Measuring Acceleration on a Bike using Phyphox
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
3K
Sig figs introductory physics course
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Spacetime Physics (2nd ed.) problem 2-2: Bathroom scale and a Trampoline
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
What is the formula for determining the force of impact in a physics problem?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Courses Taking an introductory topology course for physics
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Newton's Laws: Analyzing Forces on a Pendulum in Introductory Physics
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Book sandwiched between your hand and table
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Programs Is it too late for me to get into Physics?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Courses Freshman Physics Major Struggles in University Course
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Syntax Error? x and y components of E field in unit vector form
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K