Solving a Skier's Horizontal Distance Problem

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SUMMARY

The skier's problem involves calculating the horizontal distance traveled after descending a 200 m hill inclined at 10.5 degrees, with a coefficient of friction of 0.075. The key equations include Ff = μFnorm and Fnet = ma, which are essential for determining forces acting on the skier. The solution requires breaking down the forces into components and applying kinematic equations to find the distance traveled on the horizontal surface after the incline. The discussion emphasizes that all necessary data is provided, and a single equation suffices to solve the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent)
  • Knowledge of frictional forces and coefficients
  • Ability to apply kinematic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's second law in inclined planes
  • Learn how to decompose forces into components
  • Explore kinematic equations for motion on horizontal surfaces
  • Investigate the effects of friction on motion in physics
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in solving mechanics problems involving inclined planes and frictional forces.

A PP4L K
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Homework Statement



A skier starts from rest at the top of a hill that is inclined at 10.5degrees with the horizontal. The hillside is 200 m long, and the coefficient of friction between the skis is 0.075. At the bottom of the hill, the snow is level and the coefficient of friction is unchanged. How far does the skier move along the horizontal portion of the snow before coming to rest?


Homework Equations


Ff=μFnorm
Fnet=ma
cosθ=adj/hyp
sinθ=opp/adj
tanθ=opp/adj


The Attempt at a Solution


μ = .075
d = 200m
incline = 10.5°

I know I must use components to solve, but the way this problem is set up (lack of givens) I am having trouble solving it. Also I do not know how to calculate it once he hits horizontal land and is no longer on the slope. A walk-through of this would be absolutely AMAZING! :)
 
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A PP4L K said:

Homework Statement



A skier starts from rest at the top of a hill that is inclined at 10.5degrees with the horizontal. The hillside is 200 m long, and the coefficient of friction between the skis is 0.075. At the bottom of the hill, the snow is level and the coefficient of friction is unchanged. How far does the skier move along the horizontal portion of the snow before coming to rest?


Homework Equations


Ff=μFnorm
Fnet=ma
cosθ=adj/hyp
sinθ=opp/adj
tanθ=opp/adj


The Attempt at a Solution


μ = .075
d = 200m
incline = 10.5°

I know I must use components to solve, but the way this problem is set up (lack of givens) I am having trouble solving it. Also I do not know how to calculate it once he hits horizontal land and is no longer on the slope. A walk-through of this would be absolutely AMAZING! :)

You'll have to be more specific about what you think is missing from the givens. It looks okay to me.
 


Its a very very easy question!
All data required is given. You just need one equation to solve it. Think more about it.
 

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