What is the Pressure on Snow from a Person Standing on Snowshoes?

AI Thread Summary
A person weighing 900 N standing on snowshoes with an area of 2500 cm² each exerts pressure on the snow calculated using the formula P=F/A. The correct conversion of the area to square meters is crucial, leading to a pressure of 1800 Pa when calculated correctly. However, there was confusion regarding the units, as the answer key provided 0.18, which is in N/cm², not Pa. The discussion highlights the importance of unit consistency in physics problems. Ultimately, the pressure exerted on the snow is 1800 Pa, clarifying the discrepancies in the answer key.
physgrl
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Homework Statement



6. A person weighing 900 N is standing on snowshoes. Each snowshoe has an area of 2500 cm2. Find the pressure on the snow.

a. 0.18 Pa
b. 0.36 Pa
c. 1800 Pa
d. 3600 Pa

Homework Equations



P=F/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried doing F/(2*(A))
A=2500cm2/1002cm2 *1m2=.25
P=900/(2+.25)
P=1800

but the answer key says it it .18 instead
 
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A Pascal is 1 Newton per square meter. I agree with your answer.
 
Nope ignore me
 
physgrl
Your answer looks right to me (if you want the answer in Pa) - it can be done in your head. You didn't actually put in the units for your answer so you are strictly not right or wrong - your answer is just incomplete.
The pressure in N/cmsq is 0.18 but which unit is given in the mark scheme?
 
The answers are all in Pa
 
So you are right and 'the answer' looks wrong.
 
Ok lol
 
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