Question

1. critical thinking can the coefficient of friction ever have a value such that a child would be able to slide up a slide at a constant velocity? explain. assume that no one pushes or pulls on the child.

Explanation:

For constant velocity, net force on the child must be zero. A slide is inclined, so gravity acts downward along the slide ($mg\sin\theta$). Friction opposes motion; if sliding up, friction also acts downward along the slide. Both forces act in the same direction, so their sum can’t be balanced (no upward force exists without a push/pull). Thus, net force can’t be zero.

Answer:

No, the coefficient of friction cannot have such a value. When sliding up a slide without a push/pull, gravity and friction both act downward along the incline, so their combined force can’t be balanced to produce zero net force (required for constant velocity).