Calculating Work Done by an Engine to Keep Wagon Moving

It states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. However, in this scenario, we have to consider the work done by both the engine and the coal. The engine does work to maintain the constant speed, while the coal does work as it falls into the wagon. Therefore, the work done by the engine alone is not equal to the kinetic energy imparted to the coal. The downward impulse of the coal on the wagon also plays a role in this difference.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



A railway wagon runs on frictionless rails and is pulled by an engine traveling at
10 ms−1 . The wagon is loaded at constant rate with 1000 kg of coal, dropped vertically
from rest for a time of 2 s. What is the work done by the engine to keep the wagon
moving at constant speed? Is the work done equal to the kinetic energy imparted to
the coal and, if not, explain why not.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So the work done is 50,000J right?

My hench is that this is not exactly equal to the KE imparted to the coal...but I am not sure how to explain this...something to do with downward impulse of coal on wagon?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
anyone?
 
  • #3
How did you get 50,000J?
 
  • #4
KE before = 0.5mv^2

KE after = 1/2(m+1000)v^2..

difference = 50,000J

So please could you help with my second Q?
 
  • #5
Well, do you know about the work-energy theorem?
 

Related to Calculating Work Done by an Engine to Keep Wagon Moving

1. What is the formula for calculating work done by an engine to keep a wagon moving?

The formula for calculating work done by an engine to keep a wagon moving is work = force x distance. In this case, the force is the force generated by the engine and the distance is the distance the wagon travels.

2. How do you determine the force generated by an engine?

The force generated by an engine can be determined by measuring the torque (or rotational force) of the engine using a dynamometer. The torque can then be converted to a linear force using the radius of the wheels.

3. Can the work done by an engine vary?

Yes, the work done by an engine can vary depending on the weight of the wagon, the friction of the wheels, and any external forces acting on the wagon.

4. How does the work done by an engine affect the speed of the wagon?

The work done by an engine directly affects the speed of the wagon. The more work done by the engine, the faster the wagon will move. This is because work is directly proportional to the kinetic energy of the object (in this case, the wagon).

5. What units are used to measure work and distance in this calculation?

Work is typically measured in joules (J) and distance is measured in meters (m). However, other units such as foot-pounds (ft-lb) and miles (mi) may also be used depending on the specific situation.

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