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

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the pressure exerted on snow by a person standing on snowshoes, given the person's weight and the area of the snowshoes. The subject area relates to pressure calculations in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate pressure using the formula P=F/A, but questions arise regarding the correct area conversion and unit consistency. Some participants agree with the original poster's calculations, while others question the interpretation of the answer key.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different interpretations of the calculations and the units involved. There is some agreement on the original poster's approach, but confusion remains regarding the answer key's correctness.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of unit conversion from cm² to m² and the importance of using consistent units in the calculations. The answer key presents a potential discrepancy that is under discussion.

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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