Rate of Gravitational Force (Power)

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SUMMARY

The gravitational force is doing work on a 2.0 kg projectile at a rate of -39 W when the projectile's velocity is 4.0 m/s at an angle of 30 degrees above the horizontal. The calculation involves using the equation for power, P = W/T, where work is derived from the gravitational force and the angle between the force and velocity vectors. The angle used in the calculations is 120 degrees, which is determined by the relationship between the gravitational force and the projectile's velocity direction. Understanding the vector components and the definition of work is crucial for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force and its calculation (9.8 m/s²).
  • Familiarity with the concept of power in physics (P = W/T).
  • Knowledge of vector components and angles in physics.
  • Ability to interpret and draw force diagrams accurately.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between force, work, and power in physics.
  • Learn how to accurately draw and interpret force diagrams.
  • Explore the concept of work done by varying forces at different angles.
  • Practice problems involving gravitational force and projectile motion.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and the concepts of work and energy, as well as educators looking for effective ways to teach these principles.

Lori

Homework Statement


At what rate is the gravitational force doing work on a 2.0 kg projectile at an instant when the velocity of the projectile is 4.0 m/s directed 30 degrees above the horizontal.

the answer is -39 W but i need help on why!

Homework Equations


P = W/T
Power = Work*V
=Force*cos(theta)*V

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that the force of the gravity is just 9.8*2, but why is the angle that i plug in cos(120) ? I'm not sure why/how we use angle of 120 as oppose to 90-30 = 60 degrees...

If you can provide a sketch for me visually, it would help a lot...

Here's what i thought:
upload_2017-11-7_19-40-49.png
 

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How does cos(60) compare to cos(120)? This might help answer your question.
 
phyzguy said:
How does cos(60) compare to cos(120)? This might help answer your question.
Ohh, it's just the negative of it... but i get why work would be negative in this case, but how can i draw it so that i don't mess up the angles next time? Since i have to do it right on the exam, i just draw the diagram and don't think of the signs! Is there a actual sketch of it that it should look like, so that i can learn how to draw it?
 
Look at the definition of work done. Eg.. W=f.s

The angle between the velocity and force of gravity vectors is 120 degrees when they are drawn from the same point.
 
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CWatters said:
Look at the definition of work done. Eg.. W=f.s

The angle between the velocity and force of gravity vectors is 120 degrees when they are drawn from the same point.
Ohhhh. I see it now. Thanks
20171107_201215.jpg
 

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This is the way I would draw it...

Vectors.jpg
 

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