What Force Maintains a Constant Velocity for a Water Skier?

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To maintain a constant velocity for a water skier, the pulling force must equal the total resistive force. The skier experiences a horizontal force of 495 N and an acceleration of 2.0 m/s², leading to a net force calculation of 150 N. However, the correct approach involves recognizing that the net force is the difference between the pulling force and the resistive forces. Therefore, to find the force needed for constant velocity, one must account for both the pulling force and the resistive forces acting against it. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for solving the physics problem accurately.
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Physics Homework Problem--Stuck?

A 75 kg water skier is being pulled by a horizontal force of 495 N and has an acceleration of 2.0 m/s2. Assuming that the total resistive force exerted on the skier by the water and the wind is constant, what force is needed to pull the skier at a constant velocity?


I tried doing this to solve the problem:

F=ma
F=75kg x 2.0= 150N

Then I added 150 and 495 to get 645 N but this is not the right answer.

Can someone please tell me what I did wrong?
 
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What is the total resistive force...?

Daniel.
 
F_{net} = ma

This stands for the net force.. not only one. Draw a force diagram and see where each one is going.
 

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