Calculating Average Power of a Ski Lift in 2.0 Minutes Using Tension in Cable

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The discussion focuses on calculating the average power of a ski lift that raises four skiers to a height of 140 meters in 2.0 minutes. The total mass of the skiers is 260 kg, and the work done against gravity is calculated using the formula Wnc = mgh, resulting in 356720 J. The average power is derived from the work done divided by the time taken, which is 120 seconds. The velocity of the skiers is deemed irrelevant for this calculation since they are moving at a constant speed.

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neoking77
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In 2.0 minutes, a ski lift raises four skiers at constant speed to a height of 140 m. The average mass of each skier is 65kg. What is the average power provided by the tension in the cable pulling the lift?

t= 2.0min(60s/1min) = 120s
m = 65kg x 4 = 260kg

Wnc = △Ek + △Ep
Wnc = Ekf - Eki + Epf - Epi
Wnc = -mv^2 + mghf
Wnc = -1/2(v)^2 + 356720J


P = [-1/2(v)^2 + 356720J]/ 120s

i do not know v so i don't know how to solve this. have i made any errors? thanks in advance
 
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From what I can see..the velocity 'v' is irrelevant as there is no change in mechanical energy (constant speed)...you have almost solved it :smile:
 

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