Calculating Work: Solving a Skiing Problem on a 30 Degree Slope

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work required to pull a skier of mass 64 kg up an 80-meter slope at a 30-degree angle using the formula W = (Fcos(theta)) * delta x. The user initially calculated the work as 13745.6 joules but questioned the accuracy of this result. The correct approach involves understanding the forces acting on the skier and ensuring the calculations account for the angle of the slope and the gravitational force. The user ultimately resolved their confusion with assistance from other forum members.

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A skier of mass 64 kg is pulled up a slope by a motor-driven cable. How much work is required to pull him 80 meters up a 30 degree slope (assumed frictionless) at a constant speed of 3.1 meters/second? [answer is to be in joules]


Ok, so the equation I am using is W = (Fcos(theta))*delta x

I tried using the values above and I've done it over and over and still came up with the same number.

W = ((3.1*64)*cos30)*80

= 13745.6

Am I missing something obvious? Thanks in advance for any helpful suggestions.
 
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If there was no slope, a force of what magnitude would be required to keep up a constant speed?
And as dW = F dx, how much work would be required for the 80m trip?

Hope this helps you figure out what you did wrong :).
 
Last edited:
Ok, I got it . . .Thank you.
 

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