Physics of Santa's Snowy Adventure: Work-Energy & Momentum Analysis

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving Santa, who slides down a snowy roof, experiencing a frictional force of 135 N, and subsequently collides with an elf. The analysis requires applying work-energy principles and conservation of momentum to determine their velocity upon hitting the snow 6 meters below. The discussion also addresses the forces exerted during the collision, emphasizing Newton's third law, which states that the forces Santa and the elf exert on each other are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of work-energy principles in physics
  • Familiarity with conservation of momentum
  • Knowledge of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic calculations involving mass, force, and acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the work-energy theorem and its applications in real-world scenarios
  • Learn how to apply conservation of momentum in collision problems
  • Explore examples of frictional forces in physics problems
  • Investigate the implications of Newton's third law in various contexts
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in applying classical mechanics principles to solve real-world problems involving motion and collisions.

bard
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Chubby Santa(mass 100kg) decides to have some fun and slides 9.0 m down a snowy roof)starting from rest. There is a 135 n fricitional force between santa and the roof. After sliding the 9.0 meters he collides with and clings to, an elf (mass 50kg) who was sitting on the roof edge. They both fall into the snow-6 meters below

A)Write a "physics story about this event"
B)Use work-energy principles and conservation of momentum when applicable to evaluate how fast they are moving when they hit the snow.

c)During the collision santa and the elf each exert a forces on each other. WHich, if either, exerts the larger force? explain

any help would be appreciated

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For part c) "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction". Whatever force Santa exerts on the elf, the elf necessarily exerts on Santa.
 
ok i understand. What i don't understand is how to write a "physics story". I guess that i have to describe what's going on in the problem?
 
I'm afraid you'll have to ask your teacher what he/she means by a "physics story"!
 
Be careful of what you classify as 'your work' Bard.

'Your work' looks very familiar.