Solving Work Problem: Find Force & Distance

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a sled being pulled along a horizontal surface, focusing on the calculation of work done against friction and the forces acting on the sled. The problem includes parameters such as mass, distance, applied force, and the coefficient of kinetic friction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss calculating the net force acting on the sled, considering both the applied force and frictional force. There are attempts to determine the normal force and its role in calculating work done. Questions arise about the correctness of their calculations and the next steps in the problem-solving process.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, sharing their calculations and questioning their accuracy. Some express uncertainty about whether they have reached a solution, while others seek confirmation of their reasoning and calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is a recurring theme of confusion regarding the application of formulas and the interpretation of forces involved. Participants are also reflecting on previous attempts and results, indicating a process of trial and error in their understanding.

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Homework Statement



A 31.3 kg sled starts at rest on a horizontal road. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the sled and the road is μk = 0.23. A man pulls the sled a distance 8.75 m along the ground by exerting a constant force of magnitude 257 N on a rope that makes a 23.7o angle above the horizontal. Find:

Homework Equations



Hm..

W_f = mgdµ_k?

The Attempt at a Solution



Got 618 as the answer, but it's wrong.
 
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first find the net force acting on the sled in the x direction
 
SHISHKABOB said:
first find the net force acting on the sled in the x direction

OK. What I have is...

F_net = F_app - F_frictional
= 257cos(23.7) - 31.3 * 9.81 * 0.23
≈ 165

Then, what? Multiply that by the distance to get the work done?
 
Actually, I found the normal force which is 204. Then, I need to use that to determine the work done! My bad.. -___-
 
NasuSama said:
Actually, I found the normal force which is 204. Then, I need to use that to determine the work done! My bad.. -___-

so... problem solved?
 
NasuSama said:

Homework Statement



A 31.3 kg sled starts at rest on a horizontal road. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the sled and the road is μk = 0.23. A man pulls the sled a distance 8.75 m along the ground by exerting a constant force of magnitude 257 N on a rope that makes a 23.7o angle above the horizontal. Find:

Homework Equations



Hm..

W_f = mgdµ_k?

The Attempt at a Solution



Got 618 as the answer, but it's wrong.

Find what??
 
SHISHKABOB said:
so... problem solved?

I guess so. Here is what I have...

W = (2060 - 204 * .23)8.75 = 1650

Am I on the right track?
 
Last edited:

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