What Is the Acceleration of a Towed Glider?

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SUMMARY

The acceleration of a towed glider, with an airplane mass of 1.2 x 104 kg and a glider mass of 0.6 x 104 kg, is calculated using the formula F(net) = ma. The net forward thrust provided by the airplane's propellers is 3.6 x 104 N. The resulting acceleration of the glider is determined to be 2 m/s2 by applying the equation a = F/(m1 + m2).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Ability to perform basic algebraic calculations
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams (FBDs)
  • Knowledge of units of force (Newtons) and mass (kilograms)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's Laws in multi-body systems
  • Learn about free body diagram techniques for complex systems
  • Explore the effects of thrust and drag on acceleration in aviation
  • Investigate real-world applications of glider towing dynamics
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators and anyone interested in the principles of motion and forces in aviation contexts.

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Homework Statement



An airplane of mass 1.2 x 10^4 kg tows a glider of mass 0.6 x 10^4 kg. The airplane propellers provide a net forward thrust of 3.6 x 10^4. What is the gliders acceleration.

Homework Equations



F(net) = ma

The Attempt at a Solution



After drawing FBD's,

F(net) = ma
F = (m1 + m2)a
a = F/(m1 + m2)
= (3.6 x 10^4 N)/(1.2 x 10^4 kg + 0.6 x 10^4 kg)
=2 m/s^2

This seems way too easy, can anybody please help me?
 
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Looks right to me
 
Wow, that was easy! Thanks Mattowander.
 

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