Two slides have different angles, find the numeric angle

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a child sliding down two inclined slides with different angles, specifically theta1 and theta2, where theta2 is greater than theta1. The child experiences no acceleration on the first slide (theta1) due to the balance of forces, while the second slide (theta2) introduces acceleration denoted as 'a'. The solution requires applying principles of physics, including the coefficient of kinetic friction and gravitational force, to derive the formula for 'a' in terms of theta1, theta2, and gravitational acceleration 'g'. For theta1 = 45° and theta2 = 61°, the numerical value of 'a' can be computed using these derived relationships.

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In a playground, two slides have different angles of incline theta1 and theta2 (theta2 > theta1). A child slides down the first at constant speed; on the second, his acceleration down the slide is a. Assume the coefficient of kinetic friction is the same for both slides. (a) Find a in terms of
theta1, theta2, and g. (b) Find the numerical value of a for theta1 = 45° and theta2 = 61°.


I hate to post and run, but my trig skills are HORRIBLY lacking in this arena. Can any of you offer tips for solving (a)? thanks
 
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since the first angle, theta1, resulted in no acceleration, what do we know about the forces involved?
 

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