Solve Vector Word Problem with Tow Truck: Work Done in Joules

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work done by a tow truck while dragging a stalled car using the formula for work, W = F * d * cos(θ). Given a force F of 1050N and an angle θ of 24°, the work done over a distance of 1km (1000m) can be expressed in joules. The correct approach involves understanding the vector nature of force and distance, specifically using the dot product to find the effective force acting in the direction of the displacement.

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hungrymouth
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1. Let F = 1050N & θ = 24°. A tow truck drags a stalled car along a road. The chain makes an angle of θ degrees with the road, and the tension in the chain is F Newtons. How much work W is done by the truck in pulling the car a distance D = 1km(1000m) along a horizontal road? Express the result in joules using scientific notation and three significant figures.



2. w = f*d



3. I don't have a clue how to approach this problem. I need some guidance as in approaching the problem so that I can solve the problem.
 
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Start from the definition of work.
(In words - possibly.)

i.e. if the force were perpendicular to the direction of travel - how much work would it do?
 
Last edited:
hungrymouth said:
2. w = f*d

And don't you mean ##w = \vec f \cdot \vec d##? (Vectors and dot product)
 

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