Skier coasts down hill speed at bottom?

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In summary, the conversation is about a skier coasting down a 10 m high slope and the calculations for their speed at the bottom of the slope. The equations for kinetic and potential energy are mentioned as well.
  • #1
araspante
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Hello! Just wondering if anyone could point me in the correct direction with these problems?

Homework Statement


"A skier coasts down a very smooth, 10 m high slope. If the speed of the skier on the top of the slope is 5.0 m/s, what is his speed at the bottom of the slope?"

and...

"If the skier has a mass of 60 kg, and the force of friction retards his motion by doing 2500 J of work, what is his speed at the bottom of the slope?"


I just can't seem to figure out what equation to use to figure this out.
Help!

Thanks SO much!
 
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  • #2
welcome to pf.
At the top of the hill the skier has kinetic and potential energy - at the bottom he has just kinetic - since no energy is lost these are equal.
what are the equations for KE and PE?
 
  • #3
thank you!

the equations are...

KE= 1/2mv^2
PE= mgy
 

FAQ: Skier coasts down hill speed at bottom?

1. What factors affect the speed of a skier coasting down a hill?

The speed of a skier coasting down a hill can be affected by various factors such as the steepness of the hill, the type and condition of the snow, the skier's body position and weight distribution, and any obstacles or terrain features on the slope.

2. How does the shape of the slope impact a skier's speed at the bottom?

The shape of the slope can greatly impact a skier's speed at the bottom. A steeper slope will result in a faster speed, while a flatter slope will slow the skier down. Additionally, slopes with curves or turns can also affect a skier's speed as they navigate through them.

3. Is the speed of a skier at the bottom of a hill affected by the length of the run?

The length of the run can impact a skier's speed at the bottom, but it is not the only determining factor. A longer run may give the skier more time to gain speed, but other factors such as the slope steepness and snow conditions will also play a role.

4. Can a skier control their speed while coasting down a hill?

Yes, a skier can control their speed while coasting down a hill by adjusting their body position and weight distribution. For example, leaning forward can increase speed while leaning back can slow the skier down. Additionally, using techniques such as carving and turning can also control speed.

5. How does the weight of a skier impact their speed at the bottom of a hill?

The weight of a skier can impact their speed at the bottom of a hill. Heavier skiers will generally have more momentum and may reach higher speeds, while lighter skiers may not gain as much speed. However, other factors such as the slope steepness and snow conditions will also play a role in determining a skier's speed.

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