Basic force question(should be too easy)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a supertanker, its mass, distance traveled, and final speed. Participants are exploring the relationship between force, acceleration, and work in the context of classical mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the unbalanced force using acceleration but expresses confusion about how to apply it in the relevant equation. Other participants introduce the work-energy principle and clarify terms like work (W) and kinetic energy (KE), while some question the original poster's calculations and unit conversions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing definitions and questioning assumptions about unit conversions and the application of formulas. There is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet, but guidance is being offered regarding the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with unit conversions and the original poster's understanding of the relevant physics concepts, indicating a need for clarification on foundational terms and equations.

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Homework Statement


A supertanker of mass 1.0 X 10^8 travels 3.5km, reaching a speed of 4.1km/h from rest. What was the magnitude of the unbalanced force acting on it?


2. The attempt at a solution

I got the acceleration(2.4m/s^2), but how do I fit this into the equation? The answer is 18529.5N, but I have no idea how they got that.
 
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[tex]W=\Delta KE[/tex]
 
Snazzy said:
[tex]W=\Delta KE[/tex]
I've only taken physics for 2 months in my life, so please excuse me, but what the heck is W and what the heck is KE?
 
W is work, KE is the kinetic energy.
 
Snazzy said:
W is work, KE is the kinetic energy.

Im not used to using that formula. I usually use force=mass X acceleration.
 
Well, your acceleration is wrong, possibly due to the fact you forgot to convert units.
 

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