How much horsepower are you applying?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the horsepower required to tow a car at a constant speed of 20 m/sec, given a force of 200 N. The context is rooted in physics, specifically in the areas of mechanics and power calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between force, distance, and time in the context of power. Some suggest using the formula for power as force multiplied by distance over time, while others express confusion about the application of these concepts.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants attempting to clarify the relevant formulas and their applications. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between work and power, but there is no explicit consensus on the solution yet.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a physics test approaching, which may impose constraints on the discussion. Additionally, one participant notes difficulty in finding relevant formulas in their textbook, indicating potential gaps in resources.

Max CR
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Homework Statement



You are towing a car on a level road at a constant speed of 20 m/sec. A scale attatched to the rope measures a force of 200 N. How much horsepower are you applying to the towed car to keep it moving? (Note 1 HP = 746 W).

Please help I have a physics test tomorrow. Thanks and please be detailed!


Homework Equations



F = MA

The Attempt at a Solution



A = 20 m/s
F= 200 N

F=MA
200 N = M(20m/s)
 
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Try energy is force * distance
and power = energy / time
 
That didn't help miuch. Can anyone else help me?
 
Work (ie energy) is force * distance
How much force are you applying?
How much distance are you traveling in 1second?
Power is work/time, so how much work did you do in 1second.
 
Max CR said:
That didn't help miuch. Can anyone else help me?
Well it should, because the answer is right there.

Power = force * distance / time

So, you can calculate the power if you know how much force it requires to move the object over a certain distance within a certain period of time

marlon
 
Wow! I cannot believe I finally got this questioN! THanks. The problem was I did not know that formula and I can not find it in my book anywhere ...
 
Max CR said:
Wow! I cannot believe I finally got this questioN! THanks. The problem was I did not know that formula and I can not find it in my book anywhere ...

What formula ?

I find it quite hard to believe your book wouldn't mention one of the formula's cited above

marlon
 

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