Solving Net Force with (g), sin(θ) & μcos(θ)

In summary, an Olympic skier moving at 33 m/s down a 22◦ slope encounters a region of wet snow with a coefficient of kinetic friction of μ = 0.78. Using the equation for net acceleration, the skier's displacement down the slope before coming to a halt can be found by using Newton's second law and the kinematic equations, with Ff = μ*Fn.
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chezholmes
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Homework Statement
An Olympic skier moving at 33 m/s down a 22◦ slope encounters a region of wet snow of coefficient of kinetic friction μ = 0.78.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s2 .
How far down the slope does she travel before coming to a halt?
Answer in units of m.
Relevant Equations
Newton's second law equation
kinematic equations
Ff = μ*Fn
Tried net force = (g)sin(θ)- μ(g)cos(θ)
 
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And your question is?
 
  • #3
chezholmes said:
Homework Statement: An Olympic skier moving at 33 m/s down a 22◦ slope encounters a region of wet snow of coefficient of kinetic friction μ = 0.78.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s2 .
How far down the slope does she travel before coming to a halt?
Answer in units of m.
Homework Equations: Newton's second law equation
kinematic equations
Ff = μ*Fn

Tried net force = (g)sin(θ)- μ(g)cos(θ)
Net force as you have it is actually 'net acceleration'. Well that's fine - select correct equation of motion to solve for displacement down the slope.
 

1. What is net force and how is it calculated?

Net force is the overall force acting on an object, taking into account both magnitude and direction. It is calculated by adding up all the individual forces acting on the object, taking into account their respective directions.

2. What is the role of gravity (g) in calculating net force?

Gravity, represented by the symbol g, is a fundamental force that acts on all objects with mass. It is a constant and is typically measured as 9.8 meters per second squared. When calculating net force, the force of gravity must be taken into account as it affects the overall motion of an object.

3. How does sin(θ) and μcos(θ) factor into solving net force?

Sin(θ) and μcos(θ) are both used to represent the forces acting on an object at an angle. Sin(θ) represents the vertical component of the force, while μcos(θ) represents the horizontal component. These components are necessary to accurately calculate the net force on an object.

4. Can net force be negative?

Yes, net force can be negative. This indicates that the overall force acting on the object is in the opposite direction of its motion. For example, if an object is moving to the right with a net force of -10 Newtons, this means that there is a force acting on the object in the leftward direction, causing it to slow down or change direction.

5. How is net force used in real-life applications?

Net force is used in many real-life applications, such as engineering, physics, and sports. It is crucial in understanding the motion of objects and helps to determine how much force is needed to generate a desired movement. For example, understanding net force is essential in designing bridges, calculating the force needed to throw a ball a certain distance, and determining the force needed to move objects in construction.

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