Question

A constant force of 39.1 N, directed at 27.5° from horizontal, pulls a mass of 12.3 kg horizontally a distance of 3.01 m. Calculate the work done by the force.

Answer 1

Answer on Question#39116 – Physics - Mechanics

A constant force of 39.1 N, directed at $27.5{}^{\circ}$ from horizontal, pulls a mass of 12.3 kg horizontally a distance of 3.01 m. Calculate the work done by the force.

Solution:

The work done by a constant force of magnitude $F$ on a point that moves a displacement (not distance) $d$ in the direction of the force is the product:

$$W = F_x \cdot d = F \cos \alpha \cdot d = 39.1 \, \mathrm{N} \cdot \cos 27.5{}^{\circ} \cdot 3.01 \, \mathrm{m} = 104.4 \, \mathrm{J}$$

Answer: work done by the force is equal to 104.4J