Final answer:
In Physics, to find the acceleration of a bicyclist, subtract the drag force from the pedal force to get the net force, then divide by the mass of the bicyclist according to Newton's second law.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question is related to the subject of Physics, specifically to the concept of forces and motion. We are given a situation where a bicyclist is experiencing a net force due to a pedal force and a drag force and asked to determine the acceleration that results from these forces.
To solve this problem, we would apply Newton's second law of motion, which states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass (F = ma). The net force acting on the bicyclist is the difference between the pedal force and the drag force.
To calculate the acceleration, subtract the drag force from the pedal force to find the net force and then divide by the mass of the bicyclist. The formula for acceleration (a) would be a = (F_{pedal} - F_{drag})/m. Plugging in the numbers, we get a = (180 N - 40 N)/75.0 kg = 1.87 m/s^2.
This problem involves key concepts such as net force, acceleration, and Newton's second law.
Your complete question is: A 75.0kg bicyclist (including the bicycle) is pedaling to
the right, generating a 240N force. She is experiencing
a 40.0N drag. Neglect any friction impeding her motion.
A. How many forces are acting on the bicyclist?
B. What is the magnitude of the net force on the bicyclist?
C. What is the magnitude of her acceleration?
D. Describe her speed: