Question

A cyclist moves effortlessly at a constant speed of 12 m / s, but enters a muddy area where the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.60. Will the rider leave the muddy area without having to pedal if the mud extends 11m? If so, how fast will it emerge?

Answer 1

3.5 m/s

Step-by-step explanation:

There are 3 forces on the cyclist:

Weight force mg pulling down,

Normal force N pushing up,

and friction force Nμ pushing left.

Sum of forces in the y direction:

∑F = ma

N − mg = 0

N = mg

∑F = ma

-Nμ = ma

-mgμ = ma

a = -gμ

a = -(10 m/s²)(0.60)

a = -6 m/s²

Velocity reached at end of 11 m:

v² = v₀² + 2aΔx

v² = (12 m/s)² + 2 (-6 m/s²) (11 m)

v = √12 m/s

v ≈ 3.5 m/s