College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 2 - Kinematics: Description of Motion - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Exercises - Page 66: 85

Answer

$a=-1.3\,\mathrm{m/s^2}$

Work Step by Step

For the motion of the car on the dry pavement: $\Delta x=50\,\mathrm{m}$, $a=-7.5\,\mathrm{m/s^2}$ and $v_0=70\,\mathrm{mi/h}=31\,\mathrm{m/s}$ We can find the final velocity of the car, when it reaches the junction between the dry pavement and the icy patch, using the kinematic equation: \begin{align*} v^2&=v_0^2+2a\Delta x\\ &=(31)^2+2(-7.5)(50)\\ &=961-750\\ &=211\\ v&=\sqrt{211}\\ v&=14.5\,\mathrm{m/s} \end{align*} This will be the initial speed of the car when it enters the icy patch, with $v=0$ (since it comes to rest) and $\Delta x=80\,\mathrm{m}$. Using the kinematic equation: \begin{align*} v^2&=v_0^2+2a\Delta x\\ 0&=(14.5)^2+2a(80)\\ 160a&=-210\\ a&=-{210\over 160}\\ a&=-1.3\,\mathrm{m/s^2} \end{align*} Deceleration on the ice is $1.3\,\mathrm{m/s^2}$
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