Efficiency Calculation for Mechanical System with Incomplete Information

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the efficiency of a mechanical system, specifically an elevator, with incomplete information regarding the parameters involved. Participants are exploring the relationship between potential energy and power in the context of lifting a load.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to calculate potential energy and efficiency, questioning the adequacy of the provided information. There is a focus on matching time units and understanding the implications of power calculations.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on matching time units and have confirmed calculations related to potential energy. There is ongoing exploration of how to derive efficiency from the calculated values, with some participants expressing uncertainty about the assumptions being made.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the challenge of working with incomplete information, particularly regarding the angle of elevation and the conversion of units related to the load being lifted.

TyErd
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Homework Statement


Hey I've attached the question. My main problem is figuring out how to start.


Homework Equations


not exactly sure, PE=mgh?
efficiency= used power/total power *100 = used power/ 2950 * 100...


The Attempt at a Solution


i calculated the potential energy 70*30*9.81*7.5=154507.5 J
I thought about finding the angle of elevation but don't have enough information.
 

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TyErd said:

Homework Statement


Hey I've attached the question. My main problem is figuring out how to start.


Homework Equations


not exactly sure, PE=mgh?
efficiency= used power/total power *100 = used power/ 2950 * 100...


The Attempt at a Solution


i calculated the potential energy 70*30*9.81*7.5=154507.5 J
I thought about finding the angle of elevation but don't have enough information.

You will need to match up your time units for a start.

Watts is Joules per second. but the load is 30 people per minute.
 
The work done by the elevator raised the people; increased their potential energy. Is that useful work?
That happened in 1 minute. What was the power ?

ehild
 
okay I've matched up time units. 2950 J/s and 0.5 people/ second.
potential for half a person? = 35*9.81*7.5 = 2575.125 J/s is that right??
 
It is right.ehild
 
so then to find efficiency i just do 2575.125/2950 * 100 = 87.3%?
 
TyErd said:
so then to find efficiency i just do 2575.125/2950 * 100 = 87.3%?

Yes.

ehild
 

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