Finding a plane's weight and horizontal acceleration at takeoff

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the weight and horizontal acceleration of an airplane during takeoff, given a force of 8240 N at an angle of 75.0° above the horizontal. The weight of the plane is determined to be 7959.23 N, which equals the vertical force component due to the constant vertical speed. The horizontal acceleration is calculated using the horizontal force component of 2132.67 N and the mass derived from the weight. The mass is confirmed to be 840.82 kg, leading to the correct application of Newton's second law for acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector decomposition in physics
  • Familiarity with Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.8 m/s²)
  • Ability to perform trigonometric calculations (sine and cosine)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector decomposition in physics for force analysis
  • Learn about Newton's second law and its applications in real-world scenarios
  • Explore the concept of constant velocity and its implications on forces
  • Practice problems involving forces at angles and their components
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of aircraft during takeoff.

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Homework Statement


On an airplane's takeoff, the combined action of the air around the engines and wings of an airplane exerts a 8240-N force on the plane, directed upward at an angle of 75.0° above the horizontal. The plane rises with constant velocity in the vertical direction while continuing to accelerate in the horizontal direction.

What is the weight of the plane in N?

What is it's horizontal acceleration?


Homework Equations


Force in the x direction: Fx=Fcos(theta)
Force in the y direction: Fy=Fsin(theta)

To find the weight of the plane, I would first find the mass and then use the equation
W=m X g, g being -9.8 m/s^2.

To find acceleration in the x direction, I would use Ax=Fx/m



The Attempt at a Solution



I found Fx and Fy like so:
Fx=8240cos(75*)
=2132.67 N

Fy=8240sin(75*)
=7959.23 N

I'm stuck on what to do after that...if I try to use the original force given 8240 N in the F=mg equation to find the mass, I get 840.82 kg. If I were to try and plug that back into the W=mg equation, I would just get the same original force that I was already given.

I need the mass to find acceleration, and I know I would do so by using the Ax=Fx/m. I have the Fx, I just need to know how to find the mass.

Help?

Thanks!
 
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The plane rises with constant vertical speed so the vertical force, which you say is 7959.23 N, must be exactly equal to the weight of the airplane, mass times g.
 
So you're saying that the 7959.23 N is my weight of the plane? I guess that would make sense, since it's a constant vertical speed (y direction)...
 
Got the right answer for both questions! Thanks so much!
 

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