Solve Physics: Calculate Force for Gloria's Sled

[NJCarter15]

Physics Questions!

Homework Statement

Gloria is pulling her baby in his sled. The baby and sled have a mass of 75 kg. If she is holding the rope to the sled at a 45o angle and she wants to accelerate at 0.5 m/s2 how much force does she need to exert?

Homework Equations

d = v x t vavg = ½ (vf + vi) vf = at + vi
a = (vf - vi) / t d = vi t+ ½ at 2 vf2 = vi2 + 2ad
d = (vf2 - vi2)/2a F = ma g = acceleration due to gravity = -10 m/s2; Pressure = N/m2 = Pa

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[berkeman]

You must show us your attempt at a solution before we can help you. That's one of the PF rules (see the "Rules" link at the top of the page).

So how would you start this problem?

 

[NJCarter15]

Well my attempt would be as followed:

Since I know the mass of 75kg and the acceleration (.5m/s2) I now know Fnet in the equation Fnet = Ftension + Fg. Now how do I incorporate an angle into this problem?

 

[qspeechc]

Resolve the force so everything is along the same line.

 

[NJCarter15]

Yes but how would I go about solving the problem?

 

[qspeechc]

And then you have one force that is multiplied by some trig function, equal to some other forces. You have enough information to solve this problem. Show us some of your working out.

 

[NJCarter15]

I have force due to gravity which is mg (75kg)(-10m/s^2). Do I solve for that and then use trig. I do not know?

 

[malty]

I have force due to gravity which is mg (75kg)(-10m/s^2). Do I solve for that and then use trig. I do not know?

No, you need to work out the component of the force due to gravity that is acting on the sled. As was already said, resolve the components to one line.

Draw a diagram of exactly what is happening and what you think the forces acting upon it are, and if possible show us this diagram.