Math Problem Statement
The three ropes shown in the bird's-eye view of (Figure 1) are used to drag a crate 4.6 m across the floor. How much work is done by each of the three forces?
Solution
To calculate the work done by each of the three forces (, , and ) on the crate as it moves 4.6 m across the floor, we use the formula for work:
where:
- is the work done by the force,
- is the magnitude of the force,
- is the distance over which the force is applied (in this case, 4.6 m),
- is the angle between the force and the direction of motion.
Analyzing Each Force:
-
Force :
- The angle between and the direction of motion is .
- Work done by :
-
Force :
- The angle between and the direction of motion is .
- Work done by :
-
Force :
- The angle between and the direction of motion is , indicating that is directly opposite to the motion.
- Work done by :
- Since , will be negative, indicating that does work against the motion.
Calculating the Values:
Now, let’s compute each component.The work done by each of the three forces is as follows:
- Work done by :
- Work done by :
- Work done by : (negative, indicating work against the direction of motion)
Would you like further explanation on any of these calculations, or do you have additional questions?
Here are 5 related questions to consider:
- How does the direction of a force affect the work done?
- What would happen to the work values if the crate moved a longer distance?
- How would changing the angles of the forces impact the work done?
- Why is the work by negative, and what does it imply?
- How could we determine the net work done on the crate?
Tip: Remember, work is positive if the force is in the direction of motion and negative if it opposes it.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Work and Energy
Vector Components
Trigonometry
Formulas
Work formula: W = F * d * cos(θ)
Theorems
Work-Energy Theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 11-12