The Work Done in Pulling a Supertanker

In summary, the conversation discusses a homework problem involving two tugboats pulling a disabled supertanker with a constant force of 1.90×10^6 N. One tugboat is pulling at an angle of 13.0 degrees west of north and the other at an angle of 13.0 degrees east of north, resulting in a distance of 0.840 km traveled towards the north. The attempt at a solution involves using the equation 2 * (1.90×10^6 N) * cos(13) * 0.84 * 10^3, which leads to a value of 2.9 * 10^9. However, it is pointed out that there may be a rounding error
  • #1
rock_star
13
0

Homework Statement



Two tugboats pull a disabled supertanker. Each tug exerts a constant force of 1.90×10^6 N , one at an angle 13.0 degrees west of north, and the other at an angle 13.0 degrees east of north, as they pull the tanker a distance 0.840 km toward the north.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



2 * (1.90×10^6 N) * cos(13) * 0.84 * 10^3 = 2.9 * 10 ^9

can anyone tell me where I did a mistake?

Thanks a lot before hand
 
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  • #2
It does not look like you made a mistake.
 
  • #3
rock_star said:

Homework Statement



Two tugboats pull a disabled supertanker. Each tug exerts a constant force of 1.90×10^6 N , one at an angle 13.0 degrees west of north, and the other at an angle 13.0 degrees east of north, as they pull the tanker a distance 0.840 km toward the north.


The Attempt at a Solution

Solution to what?
 
  • #4
rock.freak667 said:
It does not look like you made a mistake.

It is showed that I made a mistake :(
Rounding error..
It is 3.11 not 2.9 :(

Thanks a lot though! :)
 
Last edited:
  • #5
The correct answer is 3.11E+9. Make sure you use 13 DEGREES and not 13 RADIANS. If you entered into a *dumb* calculator, it usually assumes radians. Try writing

2*1.9E6*cos(13*pi/180)*0.84E3 into google, and it gives you the right answer.
 

What is "The Work Done in Pulling a Supertanker"?

The Work Done in Pulling a Supertanker is a scientific concept that refers to the amount of energy required to move a supertanker through the water. This includes the work done by the engines and propellers as well as the resistance of the water against the hull of the tanker.

How is the work done in pulling a supertanker calculated?

The work done in pulling a supertanker is calculated using a combination of factors, including the mass of the tanker, the speed at which it is moving, and the resistance of the water. This can be calculated using equations such as the work-energy principle or the drag equation.

What factors affect the work done in pulling a supertanker?

Several factors can affect the work done in pulling a supertanker, including the size and shape of the tanker, the speed at which it is moving, the density and viscosity of the water, and any external forces such as wind or currents. The design and efficiency of the tanker's engines and propellers also play a significant role.

Why is understanding the work done in pulling a supertanker important?

Understanding the work done in pulling a supertanker is essential for various reasons. Firstly, it helps in the design and operation of supertankers, ensuring they are energy-efficient and can navigate through water effectively. It also has environmental implications, as reducing the work done in pulling a tanker can lead to a decrease in fuel consumption and emissions. Lastly, understanding this concept is crucial for safety, as it allows engineers and naval architects to determine the maximum load a supertanker can safely carry.

How can the work done in pulling a supertanker be reduced?

The work done in pulling a supertanker can be reduced by implementing various measures such as using more efficient engines and propellers, optimizing the tanker's shape and hull design, and reducing its speed. Other methods include using alternative fuels, such as liquefied natural gas, or technologies like air lubrication systems that reduce the resistance between the hull and water. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the hull can also help decrease the work done in pulling a supertanker.

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