Total energy of an airplane, work done against air resistance

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the work done against air resistance for an airliner during its climb to cruising altitude. The user initially applies the energy conservation equation but arrives at an incorrect result of 3.58 x 10^10 J instead of the expected 3.83 x 10^9 J. They reevaluate their approach, suggesting that the equation should be rearranged to properly account for the work done against air resistance. The user also notes the importance of the relationship between energy, power, and time in their calculations. The thread emphasizes the need for careful application of physics principles to solve the problem accurately.
furor celtica
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Homework Statement



An airliner of mass 300 tonnes is powered by four engines, each developing 15 000 kW. Its speed at take-off is 75 m(s^1), and it takes 11 minutes to reach its cruising speed of 210 m(s^1) at a height of 10 000 metres. Calculate the work done against air resistance during the climb.




Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Alright so I have reasoned that (total energy at take-off)+(work done by engines)+(W, work done against air resistance)=(total energy at 10 000 metres) and that:
Total energy at take-off = PE +KE = 0 + (0.5 x 300 000 x (75^2))
Work done by engines (in 11 minutes) = (60 000 000)/(660)
Total energy at 10 000 metres = PE + KE = (10 000 x 300 000g) + (0.5 x 300 000 x (210^2))
G=10

Which makes W (work done against air resistance) = ((10 000 x 300 000 x 10) + (0.5 x 300 000 x ((210^2)) – (0.5 x 300 000 x (75^2)) – ((60 000 000)/(660))) = 3.58 x (10^10) J correct to 3 s.f.

However, the correct answer is 3.83 x (10^9) J.
What mistake(s) did I make?
 
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furor celtica said:
(total energy at take-off)+(work done by engines)+(W, work done against air resistance)=(total energy at 10 000 metres)

I think that the above equation must be

(total energy at take-off)+(work done by engines) = (W, work done against air resistance) + (total energy at 10 000 metres)
 
furor celtica said:
Work done by engines (in 11 minutes) = (60 000 000)/(660)

Note that Energy = Power x time
 
thanks!
 
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