Net Force of object changing velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the net force acting on a supertanker as it changes velocity. The problem involves concepts from dynamics, specifically the relationship between mass, acceleration, and force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the equations of motion to find acceleration and subsequently the net force. Some participants question the unit conversions necessary for mass and acceleration, while others suggest re-evaluating the order of operations in their calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the correct unit conversions and the implications of their calculations. There is an acknowledgment of potential errors in the approach, and some guidance has been offered regarding the necessary conversions to standard units.

Contextual Notes

There is a focus on ensuring that all quantities are in the correct units, as the original poster's calculations involve mixed units. The urgency of the original poster's upcoming test adds a layer of pressure to the discussion.

ital_dj
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[SOLVED] Net Force of object changing velocity

Hi, I'm studying for a test, so there might be a few of these in the next hour or so.

Homework Statement


A supertanker of mass 1.0 X 10[tex]^{8}[/tex] kg travels 3.5km, reaching a speed of 4.1km/h from rest. What was the magnitude of the unbalanced force acting on it?

Homework Equations


Fnet = ma
v[tex]^{2}_{2}[/tex] = v[tex]^{2}_{1}[/tex] + 2a[tex]\Delta[/tex]d

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried (4.1km/h)[tex]^2[/tex] = 2a(3.5km)
[tex]\frac{16.81km/h^2}{3.5km}[/tex] = 2a
4.80km = 2a
2.4km/h = a

and then I tried converting it by dividing it by 60 twice, and sliding to the right 3 decimal places, then inserting it into the Fnet = ma.

I'm really stuck, and that's not good if I have a unit test tomorrow :frown:
 
Last edited:
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When using F=ma, you need m to be in kg and a to be in m/s^2
So, convert the velocities into m/s and the distance into m
 
I'll try it again but instead beforehand.. I did it after, though, does that make a difference?
EDIT: still not working out though.
 
Last edited:
ital_dj said:
I'll try it again but instead beforehand.. I did it after, though, does that make a difference?

Not really but it seems correct that [itex]a=2.4kmh^{-2}[/itex]. Just multiply by 1000 and divide by 3600 and it should be correct.
 
Last edited:
The answer in the book is 1.9 * 10[tex]^4[/tex]

By multiplying 2.4 times 1000 and dividing by 3600 gives me 0.67. Still not correct. :S
 
ital_dj said:
The answer in the book is 1.9 * 10[tex]^4[/tex]

By multiplying 2.4 times 1000 and dividing by 3600 gives me 0.67. Still not correct. :S

Divide by 3600^2 . Sorry,told you to do the wrong thing.
 
OK Thanks.
 

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