Calculating Power Output: A Homemade Ice Cream Maker

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the average power output of a homemade ice cream maker. The individual applies a force of 22 N on a crank handle with a radius of 0.25 m, turning it every 2.0 seconds. The correct formula for power is P = Work/Time, where Work is calculated using the distance traveled along the circular path. The final calculation reveals that the average power expended is 11 watts, correcting the initial miscalculation of 2.75 watts due to improper time conversion.

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  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly work and power
  • Familiarity with circular motion and circumference calculations
  • Knowledge of force application in physics
  • Ability to convert time units for calculations
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  • Study the concept of work done in circular motion
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  • Explore the derivation of the power formula P = Work/Time
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of power calculations in mechanical systems.

shawonna23
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A person is making homemade ice cream. She exerts a force of magnitude 22 N on the free end of the crank handle, and this end moves in a circular path of radius 0.25 m. The force is always applied parallel to the motion of the handle. If the handle is turned once every 2.0 s, what is the average power being expended?

I know that Power=Work/Time or P=F*V

so P= 22cos360 * .25/2 =2.75w

but my answer is wrong. What am I doing wrong?
 
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Notice that the handle does not move 0.25m, it moves around a circle whos radius is 0.25m. Find the circumference of this circle to find the total distance moved.
 


Your calculation for power is correct, but you may have forgotten to convert the time from 2.0 seconds to 1.0 second, since the power formula requires time to be in units of seconds. So the correct calculation would be P= 22cos360 * .25/1 = 11w. This is the average power being expended by the person as they turn the handle once every 2.0 seconds.
 

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