Solving Ramp with Friction Homework Problem

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The discussion revolves around calculating the coefficient of kinetic friction for a mass sliding down an inclined plane and then stopping on a level surface. Participants express confusion about the potential and kinetic energy equations, particularly regarding the work done by friction and how to calculate it. There is debate about the normal force on both the ramp and the level surface, with clarification that the normal force on the ramp is mg cos 30.3°. The importance of using the same coefficient of friction for both surfaces is emphasized, as indicated by the professor. Overall, the thread highlights the complexities of applying physics concepts to solve the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement



When mass M is at the position shown, it is sliding down the inclined part of a slide at a speed of 2.15 m/s. The mass stops a distance S2 = 2.5 m along the level part of the slide. The distance S1 = 1.15 m and the angle θ = 30.30°. Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction for the mass on the surface.

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Homework Equations



1/2mv2 + mgh = ?

The Attempt at a Solution



I do not know where to start..
 
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PEI + KEI = PEF + KEF - WFriction, where WFriction is the work done by friction.

WFriction is itself negative, so subtracting it from zero will give a positive number.
 
SammyS said:
PEI + KEI = PEF + KEF - WFriction, where WFriction is the work done by friction.

WFriction is itself negative, so subtracting it from zero will give a positive number.

PEi can be found using mgh, in which h is found using S1 and the angle

KEi is 1/2mv2 in which v is given

PEf is where I have doubt

KEf equals 0 since the object is at rest

Am I correct?
 
alfredo24pr said:
PEi can be found using mgh, in which h is found using S1 and the angle
...

PEf is where I have doubt
...
Am I correct?

If h is the elevation above the level, then what is h on the level?
 
SammyS said:
If h is the elevation above the level, then what is h on the level?
So, PEi + KEi = - Wfriction?

How do I calculate work done by friction?

Is it considering just the 1.15m from the ramp, the 2.5m or both?
 
Last edited:
anyone? :\
 
Both !

Find the force of friction for each surface.
 
I cannot get an answer. How do I use friction?
 
alfredo24pr said:
I cannot get an answer. How do I use friction?
The normal force for S2 is obviously mg.

What is the normal force for S1, when the block is on the ramp?

I do have a question about the problem. It does not indicate whether or not S1 has friction. It's clear that S2 has friction. I would suggest solving it both ways.

.
 
  • #10
SammyS said:
The normal force for S2 is obviously mg.

What is the normal force for S1, when the block is on the ramp?

I do have a question about the problem. It does not indicate whether or not S1 has friction. It's clear that S2 has friction. I would suggest solving it both ways.

.

The professor told me that it is the same coefficient for both
 
  • #11
alfredo24pr said:
The professor told me that it is the same coefficient for both
OK !

What is the normal force, when the block is on the ramp?
 
  • #12
SammyS said:
OK !

What is the normal force, when the block is on the ramp?

mg cos 30.3?
 
  • #13
alfredo24pr said:
mg cos 30.3?

Yes, that's right. (Make sure that's 30.3° , not 30° & 30 minutes. The latter is sometimes written 30:30° or 30°30'. 30° & 30 minutes = 30.5° )

The frictional force is μ times the normal force & is in the direction opposite the direction of the motion.
 
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