How is Gravitational Potential Energy Lost by a Gliding Cessna-182?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the rate at which a fully loaded Cessna-182, with a mass of 1250 kg, loses gravitational potential energy while gliding at a constant speed of 126 km/h and an altitude of 2540 m. The drag force opposing the plane's motion is 1300 N. Using the gravitational acceleration of 9.81 m/s², the rate of loss of gravitational potential energy is determined to be 47.3 watts. This calculation is essential for understanding energy dynamics in aviation during glide scenarios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational potential energy and its formula.
  • Basic knowledge of forces acting on an object in motion.
  • Familiarity with the concept of drag force in aerodynamics.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving mass, speed, and gravitational acceleration.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the formula for gravitational potential energy: PE = mgh.
  • Learn about the effects of drag force on gliding aircraft.
  • Explore the principles of energy conservation in aviation.
  • Investigate glide performance metrics for different aircraft models.
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineering students, aviation enthusiasts, and pilots interested in understanding the physics of gliding and energy loss during flight maneuvers.

S.h.a.w.n
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Homework Statement


A fully loaded Cessna-182 airplane of mass 1250 kg has an engine failure when flying with an airspeed of 126 km/h at an altitude of 2540 m on a calm day. It then glides at a constant glide angle (which is the direction of flight below the horizontal) towards a safe landing at this constant speed of 126 km/h experiencing a drag force of 1300 N that opposes the direction in which the plane is moving.
Please use: g = 9.81 m s-2


2. Homework Equations
Find the rate with which the loaded plane is losing gravitational potential energy.

the answer is 47.3 but i don't know how to get it
 
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