Question

PL1. A child goes down a slide.

a) Describe how you could simplify the objects (i.e. the child and the playground equipment).

b) Describe how you could simplify the interaction(s).

c) Describe one limitation of your model.  

Answer 1

a) The whole situation (experiment) of a child sliding down a slide can be simplified by differentiating it between the different components of the experiment. the child constitutes the body under observation as he moves down the slide and the Slide itself (the equipment) provides the necessary interactions for the body to properly slide down.

b) The interactions between the child and the slide are as follows;

    1. Gravitational force, sliding the child down the ramp.

    2. Frictional force, acting between the child and the slide, resisting the motion of the child.

    3. Normal reaction force applied by the slide surface on the child as he slides on it.

c) The major limitation of this model comes from the unknown value of the coefficient of friction between the child and the surface of the slide. Because if the friction is more than the downward force of gravity then the child will not be able to slide.

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