Mechanics: Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions

Vectors and Forces in 2-D: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 26:

The Splash Mountain flume ride at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida boasts one of the steepest flume rides in the world. The boats plunge 52 feet down a 43-degree incline near the final stage of the ride. Assuming a coefficient of friction of 0.12, determine the acceleration of the boat and riders. (Suggestion: Begin with a free body diagram.)

Audio Guided Solution

Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., m = 1.25 kg, µ = 0.459, vo = 0.0 m/s,  Ø = 41.6º, vf = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Vectors and Forces in Two-Dimensions at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

Return to Problem Set

Return to Overview

View Audio Guided Solution for Problem:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27