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

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SUMMARY

A person weighing 900 N standing on snowshoes with an area of 2500 cm² exerts a pressure of 3600 Pa on the snow. The pressure is calculated using the formula P=F/A, where F is the force and A is the area. The correct area conversion from cm² to m² is crucial for accurate calculations, resulting in a pressure of 1800 Pa when incorrectly calculated. The confusion arises from unit discrepancies, as the answer key lists pressure in Pascals (Pa), which is 1 N/m².

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically pressure calculations.
  • Familiarity with unit conversions, particularly between cm² and m².
  • Knowledge of the formula P=F/A for calculating pressure.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze answer keys in physics problems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review unit conversion techniques for area measurements.
  • Practice additional problems involving pressure calculations in physics.
  • Explore the implications of pressure in real-world scenarios, such as snowshoeing.
  • Learn about the properties of pressure in different materials and environments.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching pressure concepts, and outdoor enthusiasts interested in the effects of weight distribution on snow surfaces.

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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