A cyclist of total mass (cycle + rider) is travelling due north at
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A cyclist of total mass (cycle + rider) 80kg is travelling due north at 5ms−1. He applies the brakes so that the cycle comes to rest in 4s while a constant wind exerts an additional horizontal force of 15N from the east.
(i) Assuming the braking force of the ground on the tyres is the only other horizontal external force, calculate the magnitude and direction of that braking force during deceleration.
(ii) Determine the magnitude and direction of the net horizontal force acting on the cyclist during this interval.
(iii) Explain, with reference to your results, how multiple forces acting in different directions combine to decide the single vector acceleration produced.