What is the kinetic friction coefficient?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a skier sliding down a slope at a constant speed and seeks to determine the coefficient of kinetic friction. The context is rooted in physics, specifically in the study of forces and motion on inclined planes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate the forces acting on the skier, considering the balance of forces due to constant speed, and questions the role of mass in the equations. Some participants suggest drawing a force diagram to clarify the forces involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the importance of visualizing the forces through diagrams. There is recognition of the zero acceleration condition, but multiple interpretations of the forces acting on the skier are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster's expression for the force of friction may be incorrect and that additional forces along the slope need to be considered. The absence of specific numerical values, such as mass, is acknowledged but not resolved.

Kailee
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A skier is sliding down a 20o slope at constant speed, what is the kinetic friction coefficient?

Homework Equations


E = 1/2 mv2
W = Fd
F = ma
F = μN = μmg

The Attempt at a Solution


Attempted to use ma = μmgsin20, which crosses out the masses since mass was not given, but the skier is going at a constant speed so I'm assuming acceleration would be zero. Though I'm not sure how to continue the question or if I'm on the right track. Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Have you tried drawing a force diagram? If not, start here. You'll notice that your expression for the force of friction is incorrect (the μmg part), and that you have left out a force along the slope (the component of a force to be more specific)

You are correct that the acceleration would be zero.
 
Ah, figured out what I was doing wrong, thank you! :)
 
You're right, the acceleration is zero. But you are missing one force. Why don't draw an FBD of the skier on the incline.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
48
Views
8K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
6K