The discussion focuses on calculating the work done while pushing a lawn mower with a mass of 25 kg using a force of 400 N at a 45-degree angle below the horizontal over a distance of 12 meters. The coefficient of friction is 0.1, leading to an expected work output of -634 J, while the initial calculation yielded -294 J. The correct approach involves drawing a free body diagram to accurately determine the normal force, which is crucial for resolving the discrepancy in the work calculation.
PREREQUISITESStudents studying physics, particularly those tackling mechanics problems involving forces, work, and friction. This discussion is beneficial for anyone needing to understand the application of these concepts in real-world scenarios.
You should draw a free body diagram of the lawn mower with the woman pushing it, in order to find the correct normal force.master_333 said:Homework Statement
A woman pushes a lawn mower(25-kg) with a force of 400 N at an angle 45 degrees below the horizontal for a displacement of 12 meters. The coefficient of friction between the lawn and the mower is 0.1. The answer is -634 J but I get a different answer.
Homework Equations
W = F (d)
The Attempt at a Solution
W = -(coefficient of friction) (mg) (12 m)
W = - 0.1 * 25 * 9.8 * 12
W = -294J