How Fast Did Klaus Spinka Accelerate on Grass Skis?

In summary, the conversation revolved around calculating the record speed for grass skiing set by Klaus Spinka in 1985. The problem involved finding Spinka's net acceleration and velocity after 6.60 seconds, given a slope incline of 34.0° and a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.198. The conversation also touched on the role of air drag and the use of Newton's laws in solving the problem. Ultimately, the solution involved using the equation for acceleration and taking into account the force of friction.
  • #1
OttoVon
3
0

Homework Statement


The record speed for grass skiing was set in 1985 by Klaus Spinka, of
Austria. Suppose it took Spinka 6.60 s to reach his top speed after he
started from rest down a slope with a 34.0° incline. If the coefficient of
kinetic friction between the skis and the grass was 0.198, what was the
magnitude of Spinka’s net acceleration? What was his speed after 6.60 s?
The answer is:
a=3.87m/s^2
For the speed after 6.60s
velocity final=25.5m/s^2

What we Have
Time: 6.60s
Degree: 34
mg:?
n:?
M:0.198
From rest: V initial = 0 m/s
a=?
Speed after: 6.60s

Homework Equations


Friction=Mn
Efx:
Efy:

The Attempt at a Solution


This is what I did so far:
EFx: Friction-mgsin(34)=max
EFy:Normal Force-mgcos(34)=may
Added the mg's to the other side
Friction=mgsin(34)+max
Normal Force=mgcos(34)+may

Then plugged into the equation to find friction friction=(0.198)(normal force)
mgsin34+max=(mgcos34+may)(0.198)
The problem is that everything will cancel out so that is preventing me from finding acceleration
 
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  • #2
What is the value of ay?
 
  • #3
haruspex said:
What is the value of ay?
What do you mean? It didn`t specify a value is it zero?
 
  • #4
OttoVon said:
What do you mean? It didn`t specify a value is it zero?
It represents the acceleration perpendicular to the slope, right? Does the skier stay in contact with the slope? So what's the velocity perpendicular to the slope? Is it constant?
 
  • #5
He stays in contact with the slope, the velocity wouldn't be constant wouldn't it because acceleration is there to make it increase/decrease right?
 
  • #6
If the skier stays in contact with the slope what is his displacement in the y direction? What does that displacement say about the velocity and acceleration in that direction?
 
  • #7
OttoVon said:
He stays in contact with the slope, the velocity wouldn't be constant wouldn't it because acceleration is there to make it increase/decrease right?
I asked about the velocity perpendicular to the slope.
 
  • #8
Your initial acceleration looks correct, you have assumed contant acceleration up to the time limit, whereas with air drag involved the acceleration rate would diminish during the journey, the terminal velocity never being reached.
This involves maths of a greater sophistication than simply Newtons rules.
 
  • #9
dean barry said:
Your initial acceleration looks correct, you have assumed contant acceleration up to the time limit, whereas with air drag involved the acceleration rate would diminish during the journey, the terminal velocity never being reached.
This involves maths of a greater sophistication than simply Newtons rules.
I don't believe drag is supposed to be taken into account here. It would leave insufficient information.
 
  • #10
What these guys are asking is "If the skis are always in contact with the slope, what is their velocity component perpendicular to the slope?"

Chet
 
  • #11
Can i go back to finding the acceleration ?
g I've asumed at 9.81 m/s/s
The root equation is :
acceleration = f / m
But :
f = ( m * g * sine 34 ° ) - ( m * g * cosine 34 ° )
f = ( 5.4856 m ) - ( 1.6103 m )
Subtracting, you get :
f = 3.8753 m
Back to the root equation :
acceleration = ( 3.8753 m ) / m
The m's cancel, you get :
acceleration = 3.87538 m/s/s

If you then apply this acceleration constantly for 6.6 seconds youre velocity will be 25.58 m/s
 
  • #12
dean barry said:
Can i go back to finding the acceleration ?
g I've asumed at 9.81 m/s/s
The root equation is :
acceleration = f / m
But :
f = ( m * g * sine 34 ° ) - ( m * g * cosine 34 ° )
f = ( 5.4856 m ) - ( 1.6103 m )
Subtracting, you get :
f = 3.8753 m
Back to the root equation :
acceleration = ( 3.8753 m ) / m
The m's cancel, you get :
acceleration = 3.87538 m/s/s

If you then apply this acceleration constantly for 6.6 seconds youre velocity will be 25.58 m/s
You should know by now that you should not post complete solutions until the original poster has posted a solution. Until then, just helpful hints please.
 
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  • #13
haruspex said:
You should know by now that you should not post complete solutions until the original poster has posted a solution. Until then, just helpful hints please.
I sent an official Warning to Dean Barry about this earlier today.

Chet
 

Related to How Fast Did Klaus Spinka Accelerate on Grass Skis?

What is the physics behind a skier sliding down a ski slope?

The main physics principles at play when a skier slides down a ski slope are gravity, friction, and motion. Gravity pulls the skier down the slope, while friction between the skis and the snow creates a resistive force that slows the skier down. The skier's motion is determined by the balance between these two forces.

What factors affect a skier's speed while sliding down a ski slope?

The main factors that affect a skier's speed while sliding down a ski slope are the steepness of the slope, the quality of the snow, and the skier's body position and technique. A steeper slope and smoother snow will result in a faster speed, while a skier who keeps their body low and maintains a good balance will be able to control their speed better.

How does a skier turn while sliding down a ski slope?

To turn while sliding down a ski slope, a skier shifts their weight and pressure onto one ski while lifting the other ski and rotating it in the direction they want to turn. This causes the skier to change direction and continue down the slope in a new path. The shape and design of the skis also play a role in turning, as they are designed to facilitate efficient turning movements.

What equipment does a skier need to safely slide down a ski slope?

A skier needs a few key pieces of equipment to safely slide down a ski slope. The most important is a pair of skis with bindings that are properly adjusted and secured to the ski boots. A helmet is also recommended for safety. Additionally, a skier should wear appropriate clothing and protective gear, such as goggles and gloves, to stay warm and protect against falls or injuries.

What are some tips for beginners learning to slide down a ski slope?

For beginners, it is important to start on a gentle slope and gradually work up to steeper slopes as they become more comfortable and confident. Learning proper body position and balance, as well as basic turning techniques, is crucial for control and safety. It is also important to always follow the rules and safety guidelines of the ski resort and to never ski beyond one's own skill level.

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