SUMMARY
The work done by nonconservative forces in stopping an 18,000 kg airplane landing at 92 m/s on a 115 m stationary aircraft carrier deck is calculated using energy considerations. The kinetic energy (KE) of the plane before landing is determined using the formula KE = 1/2(m)(v)^2, resulting in a value of -7.6 x 10^7 J. This indicates that the nonconservative forces performed negative work, reflecting energy loss during the stopping process.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of kinetic energy calculations
- Familiarity with the work-energy principle
- Basic knowledge of physics units (joules, kilograms, meters per second)
- Ability to apply the formula W = FD in context
NEXT STEPS
- Study the work-energy theorem in detail
- Learn about nonconservative forces and their effects on mechanical systems
- Explore examples of energy loss in real-world applications
- Investigate the implications of significant figures in physics calculations
USEFUL FOR
Students in physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding energy transformations in dynamic systems.