Force on three Bolts holding up a Jet Engine

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the force on bolts supporting a 1400-kg jet engine mounted on a passenger jet. The correct interpretation of the problem is to determine the tension on each bolt, not the net force, as the bolts are stationary. Each bolt supports one-third of the total weight of the jet engine, leading to a calculated force of approximately 4,600 Newtons per bolt when considering gravitational acceleration. Misunderstanding the distinction between net force and tension led to initial confusion in the solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (F=ma)
  • Basic knowledge of static equilibrium in physics
  • Familiarity with gravitational force calculations
  • Concept of tension in structural supports
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  • Study static equilibrium and its applications in engineering
  • Learn about tension forces in structural mechanics
  • Explore gravitational force calculations for various masses
  • Investigate real-world applications of bolt tension in aerospace engineering
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mopit_011
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Homework Statement
A 1400-kg jet engine is fastened to the fuselage of a passenger jet by just three bolts (this is the usual practice). Assume that each bolt supports one-third of the load. Calculate the force on each bolt as the plane waits in line for clearance to take off.
Relevant Equations
F=ma
y=y0+v0t+(at^2/2)
My solution was that there would be a force of 0 Newtons on the bolt as the bolt is not moving. But this answer is wrong. Where am I going wrong?
 
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mopit_011 said:
Homework Statement:: A 1400-kg jet engine is fastened to the fuselage of a passenger jet by just three bolts (this is the usual practice). Assume that each bolt supports one-third of the load. Calculate the force on each bolt as the plane waits in line for clearance to take off.
Relevant Equations:: F=ma
y=y0+v0t+(at^2/2)

My solution was that there would be a force of 0 Newtons on the bolt as the bolt is not moving. But this answer is wrong. Where am I going wrong?
I doubt they mean to ask for the net force, though I agree that is a strictly correct interpretation. Rather, they want the tension on each bolt.
 
haruspex said:
I doubt they mean to ask for the net force, though I agree that is a strictly correct interpretation. Rather, they want the tension on each bolt.
Ohhhh ok. Thank you so much!
 

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