University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 5 - Applying Newton's Laws - Problems - Exercises - Page 170: 5.117

Answer

The correct answer is: (b) The climber will accelerate down the surface.

Work Step by Step

If the climber starts to slip, then the component of weight directed down the slope is greater than the maximum possible force of static friction directed up the slope. This means that as the climber is sliding, the component of weight directed down the slope must also be greater than the force of kinetic friction directed up the slope (since the force of kinetic friction is less than the maximum possible force of static friction). $\sum F = ma$ $mg~sin(theta) - mg~cos(\theta)~\mu_k = ma$ Since the force directed down the slope is greater than the force directed up the slope, the climber will accelerate down the surface. The correct answer is (b).
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.