How Do You Calculate Initial Acceleration in Newton's Laws Problems?

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SUMMARY

The initial acceleration of a 56 kg ice skater holding a cardboard sheet under the influence of a 2.1 N wind force is calculated using Newton's second law, represented by the equation F=ma. By rearranging this formula, the initial acceleration is determined to be 0.0375 m/s², derived from the calculation 2.1 N / 56 kg. This straightforward application of physics principles clarifies the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in Newton's Laws problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of force and mass units (Newtons and kilograms)
  • Ability to perform simple algebraic calculations
  • Familiarity with concepts of acceleration and velocity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study detailed applications of Newton's laws in various physics problems
  • Explore the concept of frictionless motion in physics
  • Learn about calculating average acceleration in different scenarios
  • Investigate the effects of varying forces on acceleration in real-world examples
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching Newton's Laws, and anyone interested in understanding basic mechanics and motion calculations.

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[SOLVED] Need help on a Newton's Laws problem :(

Homework Statement



A 56 kg ice skater holds up a large sheet of cardboard that can catch the wind and drive her (frictionlessly) across the ice. While she's moving at 0.5 m/s, a wind that is constant and horizontal for 5.0 s exerts a force on the cardboard of 2.1 N. What is the skater's initial acceleration once the wind begins to blow?

Homework Equations


f=ma
a=change in velocity/change in time


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure how to find the initial acceleration. I know how to find the average acceleration though.
 
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Nevermind, figured it out on my own:
Just have to do: 2.1/56

>_< why did i think this was hard...
 

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