Final answer:
The coefficient of friction between the baby carriage and the sidewalk is calculated by resolving the exerted force into its horizontal component, equating it to the force of friction, and then dividing by the normal force. The coefficient is approximately 0.034.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the coefficient of friction between the baby carriage and the sidewalk, we can use the force exerted on the handle and the angle at which it is applied. First, we need to resolve the force of 50.0 N into its horizontal component, which is the part that actually moves the carriage forward. The horizontal component (Fhorizontal) can be calculated using the cosine of the angle:
Fhorizontal = 50.0 N × cos(60.0°) = 50.0 N × 0.5 = 25.0 N
Next, we know that if the carriage is moving at a constant speed, the horizontal force applied (Fhorizontal) must be equal to the force of friction. Since the force of friction (f) is also given by f = μ × N, where μ is the coefficient of friction and N is the normal force, we can rearrange the formula to solve for μ. The normal force for the baby carriage is equal to the weight of the carriage (W = m × g), which is 75.0 kg × 9.8 m/s2 = 735 N.
Thus, the coefficient of friction (μ) can be calculated as:
μ = Fhorizontal / N = 25.0 N / 735 N ≈ 0.034
The coefficient of friction between the carriage and the sidewalk is approximately 0.034.