How do I find force given mass and constant velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a farm tractor towing a trailer up an incline at a constant speed. The subject area pertains to forces, specifically in the context of dynamics and gravitational effects on an inclined plane.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about how to begin solving the problem, with one suggesting the use of energy considerations due to the constant speed indicating zero acceleration. Others mention the need to consider gravitational potential energy and the relationship between power, energy, and time.

Discussion Status

The discussion is exploring various interpretations of the problem, including the relevance of energy concepts and the implications of constant velocity. Some participants are questioning the applicability of certain formulas and concepts, such as normal force and displacement equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that they have not yet studied energy concepts in depth, which may limit their approach to the problem. Additionally, there is mention of formulas related to forces that may not directly apply to the current situation.

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Homework Statement


A farm tractor tows a 3900kg trailer up a 16degree incline with a steady speed of 3.0 m/s. What force does the tractor exert on the trailer? (Ignore friction)


Homework Equations


F=ma
W=mg


The Attempt at a Solution


I haven't the slightest clue on where to start
 
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Solid said:

Homework Statement


A farm tractor tows a 3900kg trailer up a 16degree incline with a steady speed of 3.0 m/s. What force does the tractor exert on the trailer? (Ignore friction)


Homework Equations


F=ma
W=mg


The Attempt at a Solution


I haven't the slightest clue on where to start

Since the speed is constant, acceleration is zero, so F=ma gives you zero force for any acceleration.

Instead, use energy considerations. What it the change in gravitational potential energy (PE) per time for that tractor with that weight moving upward? And what is the equation that relates Power, Energy and Time?
 
Oh, we're not that far into it. We haven't studied energy yet. This question doesn't take into account Normal force either. We have many formulas relating displacement, time, acceleration, and velocity, but I don't think any of them come into play.

We also have Fx = Fxcosx Fy= Fycosy; x and y are theta
 
\SigmaF = -Ff + Fg = ma (0 since it's constant velocity)
mukFN + mg = 0

There's what you get from the FBD.
 

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