What is the magnitude of the average force?

In summary, to bring the sled to rest in 15 seconds, a force of 19 Newtons or 19 kilogram meters per second is required, based on the formula for force vs. momentum. However, the initial attempt at a solution was incorrect due to the misapplication of the formula and units for impulse.
  • #1
JeSs_W
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Homework Statement


An athlete on a sled is moving with a speed of 3m/s across a pond with ice. If the total mass of the sled-athlete system is 95 kg, what magnitude of force is required to bring the sled to rest in 15 seconds?

Homework Equations


Force acting = change in momentum/time that takes for change to happen

The Attempt at a Solution


F = (95kg)/(3-0sec/15-0sec) = 19 N
 
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JeSs_W said:

The Attempt at a Solution


F = (95kg)/(3-0sec/15-0sec)[/B] = 19 N

This actually equals 475 kg, which is meaningless here since you have used the formula and units for impulse incorrectly.
But 19 N•s or 19 kgm/s would be a reasonable answer so you're on the right track. You have the correct expression for
force vs. momentum in the "relevant equations" section, but you have not used it right when inserting values.
 
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  • #3
JeSs_W said:
F = (95kg)/(3-0sec/15-0sec) = 19 N
Judging from your final value, what you actually did was F = (95kg)*(3-0m/sec/15-0sec) , which is correct.
 
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1. What is the definition of "average force"?

The average force is the total force exerted on an object over a certain period of time, divided by the duration of that time period.

2. How do you calculate the magnitude of the average force?

To calculate the magnitude of the average force, you would divide the total force by the time interval over which it was applied. This can be represented mathematically as Favg = ΔF/Δt.

3. What is the SI unit for average force?

The SI (International System of Units) unit for average force is Newtons (N). Other commonly used units for force include pounds (lb) and kilograms (kg).

4. Why is it important to know the magnitude of the average force?

Knowing the magnitude of the average force can help us understand the motion and behavior of objects. It allows us to calculate acceleration and predict how an object will move under certain conditions.

5. Can the magnitude of the average force change over time?

Yes, the magnitude of the average force can change over time if the total force and/or the time interval over which it is applied changes. For example, if a force is applied with varying strength over a period of time, the magnitude of the average force will also vary.

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