Skier velocity and friction problem

In summary, a skier with a mass of 53.0 kg is being pulled up a 30.0° inclined slope at a constant velocity by a tow bar. The force applied by the tow bar is parallel to the slope and the coefficient of kinetic friction between the skis and the snow is 0.190. To find the magnitude of the force exerted by the tow bar on the skier, a force-body diagram can be drawn and Newton's Second Law can be used to solve for F. All forces should add up to zero since there is constant velocity.
  • #1
rcmango
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0

Homework Statement



a skier is pulled up a slope at a constant velocity by a tow bar. The slope is inclined at 30.0° with respect to the horizontal. The force applied to the skier by the tow bar is parallel to the slope. The skier's mass is 53.0 kg, and the coefficient of kinetic friction between the skis and the snow is 0.190. Find the magnitude of the force that the tow bar exerts on the skier.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



since i know the slope is the acceleration i believe.
couldn't i just solve for acceleration, and maybe get more parts of the picture through trig from vector components?

I'm not sure how to use the friction though.
is there an equation that will help?
 
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  • #2
"a skier is pulled up a slope at a constant velocity"

draw a force-body diagram and evaluate your forces and how you can solve for F.

visit my blog if you need examples.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Begin by defining a coordinate system (where you would like to place the x-axis), and tell me the forces that act in the x and y directions by using Newton's Second Law.
 
  • #4
What rocophysics means is that since there is constant velocity, all forces should add to zero.
 

1. How does friction affect a skier's velocity?

Friction is a force that opposes the motion of an object, so it will slow down a skier's velocity. The amount of friction acting on a skier depends on the surface they are skiing on, as well as factors like their weight and the speed they are traveling at.

2. How can a skier increase their velocity?

A skier can increase their velocity by using techniques such as tucking, where they crouch down and reduce their air resistance. They can also choose a steeper slope or use ski wax to reduce friction. However, it's important to always ski within your skill level and follow all safety precautions.

3. How does air resistance impact a skier's velocity?

Air resistance, also known as drag, acts in the opposite direction to a skier's motion and will slow them down. The higher the speed and surface area of the skier, the greater the air resistance. This is why tucking and wearing tight-fitting clothing can help reduce air resistance and increase velocity.

4. Can a skier have a constant velocity while skiing?

In theory, a skier can maintain a constant velocity if they are skiing on a flat, frictionless surface with no air resistance. However, this is not possible in real-life scenarios due to the presence of friction and air resistance, which will always slow down a skier's velocity over time.

5. How does the weight of a skier impact their velocity?

The weight of a skier can affect their velocity due to the force of gravity. Heavier skiers will have a greater force of gravity acting on them, which can increase their acceleration and therefore their velocity. However, this is not always the case as technique and other factors also play a role in a skier's velocity.

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