Pushing a box up an inclined plane

In summary, the efficiency of the inclined plane can be calculated by dividing the useful work output by the total work input. The total work input can be found by multiplying the force (in this case, the weight of the box) by the distance it is being pushed up the inclined plane. However, more information is needed to determine the total work input, such as the speed and presence of friction.
  • #1
tuffshorty
11
0
I need to calculate the efficiency of a inclined plane if a 60 pound box is being pushed up it... The inclined plane is 16 feet long (The plane itself, not the base) and it is raised up 4 feet high.


Homework Equations



efficiency= useful work output/total work input
w=fd
w= work
f= force
d= distance

The Attempt at a Solution



I have The total amount of work you are putting out is 480 ft.lb ... but I am not sure how to get the total work input...
 
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  • #2
Is the box being pushed up at a constant speed, or is it accelerating?
 
  • #3
Is there friction that needs to be accounted for?
 

1. How does the angle of the inclined plane affect the force required to push a box up?

The force required to push a box up an inclined plane is directly proportional to the angle of the incline. As the angle increases, the force required also increases. This is because the steeper the angle, the greater the component of the weight of the box that is acting against the direction of motion, making it more difficult to push the box up.

2. Is it easier to push a box up an inclined plane or to lift it straight up?

In most cases, it is easier to push a box up an inclined plane rather than lifting it straight up. This is because the incline reduces the effective weight of the box, making it easier to overcome the force of gravity.

3. How does the mass of the box affect the force required to push it up an inclined plane?

The force required to push a box up an inclined plane is directly proportional to the mass of the box. As the mass increases, the force required also increases. This is because the weight of the box increases, making it more difficult to push up the incline.

4. What is the role of friction when pushing a box up an inclined plane?

Friction plays a significant role when pushing a box up an inclined plane. In most cases, the force of friction acts in the opposite direction of motion, making it more difficult to push the box up. However, the force of friction can be reduced by using a smoother surface or by applying lubricant.

5. How does the length of the inclined plane affect the force required to push a box up?

The longer the inclined plane, the less force is required to push a box up. This is because a longer incline results in a smaller angle, reducing the effective weight of the box and making it easier to push. However, a longer incline also means a longer distance to cover, so more work is required to push the box up the entire length of the incline.

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