How Does Angle Affect Speed and Distance of a Toy Car on a Ramp?

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The discussion focuses on how the angle of an inclined ramp affects the speed and distance traveled by a toy car. Participants predict that significant differences in performance will occur between specific angles, particularly between 12 and 14 degrees, due to the car not reaching its full potential at lower angles. The relationship between the gravitational force component and friction is highlighted, indicating that as the angle increases, the car travels further. There is a request for assistance in deriving equations for speed and distance as functions of the angle, theta, to better understand the concept. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in applying physics equations to analyze the car's motion on the ramp.
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Homework Statement



The toy car has been placed on an inclied ramp facing downward. angles are as follows 10degrees , 12 degrees , 14 degrees , 16degrees , 18 degrees, 20 degrees.

after acceleratin down the ramp for 15cm, the car continues on a leveled plane.
between which consecutive angles will show a big difference in their speed and distance traveled.



Homework Equations



Fnet = ma
Fgx - Ff = ma

vf ^2 = vi ^2 + 2ad

The Attempt at a Solution



my prediction is that there will be biggere difference in 12 and 14 degree angles because the
car hasnt put to its full potential yet and at low angles like this one, it is easier to see the performance increase.
or would it be the other way around 16 degree angle and 18 degree angle?
i know that as the angles increase the x-component of the gravitational force increases more than the frictional force which is the reason why the car travels further and further.

can someone please help with this concept Help !
 
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Derive an equation for the speed and for the distance traveled as a function of theta. Then decide what the answer should be based on those.
 
what do you mean as a function of theta?

Fgx - Ff = ma
mg (sin theta - coeff of static friction ) = ma
g (sin theta - coeff of static friction ) = a


vf ^2 = vi ^2 + 2ad
0 = vi^2 + 2(g(sin theta - coeff of static friction))d

and solve for d? , is this what you mean by function of theta? I am don't understand
Help
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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