Coefficient friction between a toboggan and the snow

In summary, the conversation discusses a physics problem involving Peter pulling Paul on a toboggan with a rope at an angle of 30 degrees. The total mass of Paul and the toboggan is 40kg and the rope has a tension of 50N. The task is to find the coefficient of friction between the toboggan and the snow. The attempt at a solution involves using trigonometric functions to calculate the horizontal and vertical components of the applied force, but the individual is unsure of the correct approach. The question is raised regarding the use of 60 degrees in the calculation, and it is mentioned that the toboggan is not accelerating.
  • #1
nasadall
28
0

Homework Statement



Peter is pulling Paul who is on a toboggan, along a rough horizontal snow surface using a rope which makes an angle of 30ᵒ with the horizontal. Paul and the toboggan have a total mass of 40kg and the toboggan is moving with a constant speed in a straight line. Given the tension in the rope is 50N, find the coefficient of friction between the toboggan and the snow.

Homework Equations



Guys i don't have a clue on this one, I've been killing my head on it.

The Attempt at a Solution



this is what i tried:

Fx = Fcos 30o
43.30127019

Fy = Fsin 60o
43.30127019

That's how far i can go.

please help
 
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  • #2
Why did you use 60 degrees in your calculation of the vertical component of the applied force?

If the toboggan is not accelerating, what can you say about the forces involved?
 

Related to Coefficient friction between a toboggan and the snow

1. What is coefficient friction?

Coefficient friction is a measure of the amount of resistance between two surfaces in contact with each other. It is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of the force required to move one surface over the other to the force pressing the two surfaces together.

2. How is the coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow determined?

The coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow is determined by conducting experiments in which the toboggan is pulled or pushed along a surface of snow at different angles and speeds. The resulting data is then used to calculate the coefficient friction using the formula: coefficient friction = (force of friction)/(normal force).

3. What factors can affect the coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow?

The coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow can be affected by factors such as the type and condition of the snow, the weight and shape of the toboggan, and the angle and speed at which the toboggan is being pulled or pushed.

4. Why is the coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow important?

The coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow is important because it affects the speed and control of the toboggan. A higher coefficient friction means more resistance and slower movement, while a lower coefficient friction means less resistance and faster movement. This information can be useful for designing and choosing the right type of toboggan for different snow conditions.

5. Can the coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow be changed?

Yes, the coefficient friction between a toboggan and snow can be changed by altering the factors that affect it. For example, you can change the type of snow or the weight of the toboggan to change the coefficient friction. Additionally, using lubricants or wax on the bottom of the toboggan can also reduce the coefficient friction and increase speed.

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