What is the solution to the Power-Truck Problem in physics?

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The discussion centers on solving the Power-Truck Problem in physics, focusing on the relationship between power, mass, velocity, and displacement. Participants explore the equations for power and attempt to derive velocity and displacement as functions of time. There is confusion regarding the integration process and the implications of infinite limits for velocity and acceleration as time approaches zero or infinity. The conversation also touches on the relationship between power, work done, and gravitational potential energy, with participants clarifying the role of constants in their equations. Overall, the thread highlights the complexities involved in understanding the dynamics of the problem.
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[Solved] Power-Truck Problem

Homework Statement



powerproblem.jpg


Homework Equations



P = 0.5mv² / t
P = F * d


The Attempt at a Solution



Hey sorry again :P trying to sort out some problems...
For part 1, I'm not sure, basically, I did the equation;

P = 0.5mv^2 / t
Re-arranging to Pt = 0.5mv^2

Now velocity as a function of time;

\sqrt{\frac{2Pt}{m}} = v (or d(displacement)/dt)

So displacement = \int\sqrt{\frac{2Pt}{m}}
= \frac{t^1.5\sqrt{2P}}{{root of M}}

Doesn't seem right. And;

Acceleration = \frac{1}{2}\sqrt{\frac{2P}{mt}}

Sorry I know it's long but any help = great :P from here I think I can tackle the rest of the question.. also excuse my numerous latex fails :P
 
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Why doesn't it seem right to you? It looks alright to me so far:

If,

E ~ t​

then it seems reasonable that,

v ~ t1/2

and,

x ~ t3/2

However, I think you might be missing some constants from your integral:

\sqrt{\frac{2P}{m}} \int t^{\frac{1}{2}} dt = \sqrt{\frac{2P}{m}} \left(\frac{2}{3}t^{\frac{3}{2}}\right) + v_0​
 
Hmm I see, however, the problem then arises for the next question;

find the limiting value for velocity;

Using my answer the limiting value would be + infinite.

It would however make sense I suppose for part C where the acceleration would be infinite as t --> 0 & 0 as t --> infinite. Would that suffice do you think?

Thanks a lot for the reassurance, this question is driving me nuts :P
 
Does this really surprise you? If you supply something steady power, P, forever, then its energy will continue to increase without bound.

Acceleration is proportional to force. Power is force*velocity, which is constant. The longer you wait, the larger the velocity is, which means that the amount of force available to you is much lower. That's your argument for t --> infinity.

Reversing this reasoning gives you an argument for t --> 0.
 
makes sense, Thanks alot, i really appreciate it =P
 
Me again :Z just trying to get some closure on this ;X

concerning e) & f);

Would saying P=\frac{10g * d}{t}

Going to \frac{Pt}{10g} = Distance Moved. Be correct?

Then differentiating with respect to time --> \frac{P}{10m} = v

Be correct? :P

Then for f) I don't understand the question, sureley it's 1:1 assuming no resistance? All of the KE --> potential energy? Or am i missing something?

No idea but maybe;

P = \frac{10g*d}{t} + 0.5mv^2

& when v is very small? :[, no idea.

Thanks again for any help
 
I'm a little confused about what the number '10' is in your solution to (e). Have you considered taking the power to be the rate at which work is done, and then assuming that all of the work goes into increasing the car's gravitational potential energy?
 
Ah sorry! I meant mg, as in force * distance moved, my abd
 
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