Solving Ski Slope Friction: Find Speed & Distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the speed of a ski at the base of a 23° incline and the distance traveled on level snow, given a coefficient of friction of 0.09. Using energy conservation principles, potential energy (PE) at the top of the incline is equated to kinetic energy (KE) at the bottom plus the work done against friction. The weight of the skier is not required for the calculations, as it cancels out in the energy equations. The key formulas involve PE = mgh and KE = 0.5mv², where mass (m) does not affect the final results.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as potential energy and kinetic energy.
  • Familiarity with the concept of friction and its coefficient.
  • Knowledge of trigonometry to resolve forces on an incline.
  • Ability to apply conservation of energy principles in problem-solving.
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the speed of an object on an incline using energy conservation principles.
  • Explore the effects of varying coefficients of friction on motion.
  • Investigate the relationship between incline angle and speed on slopes.
  • Learn about work-energy theorem applications in different physical scenarios.
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of motion on inclines and the effects of friction in real-world scenarios.

Sportsman4920
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A ski starts from rest and slides down a 23° incline 60 m long. Use energy methods.
(a) If the coefficient of friction is 0.09, what is the ski's speed at the base of the incline?
m/s
(b) If the snow is level at the foot of the incline and has the same coefficient of friction, how far will the ski travel along the level?
m
 
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Set up a conservation of energy system. PE at the top equals KE at the bottom plus energy transferred due to friction. Find the work done by friction to find the final kinetic energy
 
It just doesn't seem like there is enough information to figure this out, don't you need the weight of the skier?
 
I think when you set up the formula, the masses will factor out. Try it.
 

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