Match head rubbed over a distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the average force required to raise the temperature of a match head by a specified amount, ΔT, when rubbed over a rough surface. The derived equation is F = (mcΔT) / d, where m is the mass of the match head, c is its specific heat, and d is the distance rubbed. The conversation confirms that the work done by the frictional force is entirely converted into heat, validating the use of the equation.

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Hi, I'm trying to work this problem out and unfortunately my book doesn't have an explanation.

Homework Statement



A match head is rubbed a distance d over a rough surface in order to increase the temperature to its flash point. If the patch head material has a mass m and a specific heat c, which equation represents the average force needed to raise the match head's temperature by \DeltaT?

Homework Equations



The answer is:

F=\frac{mc\Delta T}{d}

The Attempt at a Solution



Do I simply set specific heat capacity (Q) to W: Q=W and get:

mc\Delta T=Fd

and move d over?

I'm working in a MCAT study book and it doesn't go into detail about the heat capacity equation that it gives me, but I'm trying to understand this a little more fully. Thanks for any help!
 
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Tybstar said:
Do I simply set specific heat capacity (Q) to W: Q=W and get:

mc\Delta T=Fd

and move d over?

Yes. The answer assumes that all the "work" done by the force of friction F is converted to heat.
 

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