What Is the Minimum Horsepower Required to Prevent a Ship from Sinking?

[pierra]

Homework Statement

In order to keep a leaking ship from sinking, it is necessary to pump 12.0 of water each second from below deck up a height of 1.50 and over the side.

What is the minimum horsepower motor that can be used to save the ship?

Homework Equations

W=F*d

1 horse power = 746w

The Attempt at a Solution

W=F*d
= mg*d
= (12*9.8)(1.50m)=176.4

176.4w(work) / 746w(horsepower) =0.23646..

p=0.236 hp

I can't see what did I do wrong. help me!

 

[Delphi51]

pierra, it looks like you found the Work rather than the power - better to start with a P = formula.
P = W/t = F*d/t would be a terrific start.
Convert the answer to horsepower.
You don't say what units the "12.0 of water" is in and I wonder if that is the trouble with the answer (if it is wrong). You'll need the amount of water in kg to put in for the mass.