A particle is traveling in a straight line at a constant speed of 29.9 m/s. Suddenly, a constant force of 14.5 N acts on it, bringing it to a stop in a distance of 58.2 m.

(a) What is the direction of the force?
(b) Determine the time it takes for the particle to come to a stop.
(c) What is its mass?

1 answer

a = v^2/2s = 29.9^2/116.4 = 7.78
m = F/a = 14.5/7.78 = 1.88

to find t,
s = 1/2 at^2

clearly the force must act directly opposite its direction of travel.