Net Force on 5.32 x 10^4 kg Airplane: Solve the Mystery

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the net force acting on a 5.32 x 10^4 kg airplane accelerating at 1.76 m/s^2, the formula Fnet=ma is used, resulting in a calculation of 93632 N [forward]. However, this answer conflicts with the book's value of 3.02 x 10^4 N [forward], leading to speculation about a possible error in the answer key. Discussions highlight the importance of rounding to the correct number of significant figures, which affects the final answer. The conversation also raises questions about the significant figures of the provided data and the calculated result. Ultimately, clarity on significant figures is crucial for accurate reporting of the net force.
Balsam
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Homework Statement


An airplane with a mass of 5.32 x 10^4 Kg accelerates down the runway at 1.76 m/s^2 [forward]. Calculate the net force acting on the airplane.

Homework Equations


Fnet=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



I did this by multiplying the two given values, but my answer was 93632N [forward]. The answer in the book is 3.02 x 10^4 N[forward]. I have no idea where I went wrong- I've tried this twice and got the same answer both times
 
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It's quite possible that the book has an error in its answer key. Sometimes they change the question values for new editions and miss changing the answers accordingly.

Your result looks good in terms of magnitude, but you should round to the correct number of significant figures.
 
gneill said:
It's quite possible that the book has an error in its answer key. Sometimes they change the question values for new editions and miss changing the answers accordingly.

Your result looks good in terms of magnitude, but you should round to the correct number of significant figures.

Would the correct significant figures be 9.4 x 10^4 N?
 
Balsam said:
Would the correct significant figures be 9.4 x 10^4 N?
How many significant figures do the given data values have? How many in "9.4"?
 

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