Problem with equation / proving formula

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem where the speaker needs to prove a formula involving velocity and a coefficient of friction. They provide their attempt at a solution but are unsure if they made a mistake or if there is an error in the provided equation. The other person agrees that there may be a mistake and clarifies the meaning of the variable u.
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Trec93
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Homework Statement


I have to prove some formula, I got stuck in the process.

Homework Equations


Formula to prove:
[tex]v_{0} = \frac{M+m}{m}\sqrt{2gus}[/tex]
Valid equation that should get me to this formula:
[tex]\frac{m^2v_{0}^2}{2(M+m)} = gmus[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex]v_{0}^2=\frac{2(M+m)}{m^2}gmus[/tex]
[tex]v_{0}^2 = \frac{M+m}{m}2gus[/tex]
[tex]v_{0} = \sqrt{\frac{M+m}{m}2gus}[/tex]

I'm pretty sure my math has failed me here, that right handside of the equation seems fishy, or maybe book did a mistake?
 
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  • #2
You seem to be correct may be there is a mistake in the book, what is u?
 
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Yeah I'm probably going to assume that there's a mistake in the book, u is the coefficient of friction, this equation is the given equation of kinetic energy = work where the force is the force of friction.
 

1. What are some common mistakes when solving equations?

Common mistakes when solving equations include forgetting to distribute, not following the order of operations, and making calculation errors. It is important to double check your work and be mindful of these common mistakes.

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To check if your equation is correct, you can plug in the values given and solve the equation. You can also use a graphing calculator or online equation solver to verify your answer.

3. What is the importance of showing all steps when proving a formula?

Showing all steps when proving a formula is important because it allows for transparency and makes it easier for others to follow your reasoning. It also helps to identify any mistakes and allows for easier troubleshooting.

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