The problem involves a skier descending a slope and subsequently coasting up another slope while experiencing friction. The scenario includes parameters such as initial velocity, slope angle, and coefficient of kinetic friction, with the goal of determining the distance traveled up the slope before coming to a stop.
There is an ongoing exploration of different approaches to the problem, including energy conservation and force analysis. Some participants express concerns about the lack of mass information, while others argue that mass is not necessary for the calculations as it cancels out in the equations.
Participants note the absence of mass in the problem statement and question how this affects their ability to solve the problem. There is also a discussion about the assumptions made regarding the conservation of energy and the applicability of force equations.
Dick said:I would use conservation of energy. The initial kinetic energy of the skier is equal to the sum of the gravitational potential energy she gains going up the hill plus the work done in overcoming the frictional force traveling up the hill. Can you write down an expression for each of these three energies?