# Work problem, box moves at h=.25 with F=85N

1. May 8, 2016

### edgarpokemon

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

A constant force Fa of magnitude 85.0N is applied to a 3.0kg shoe box at angle 55.0, causing the box to move up a frictionless ramp at constant speed. How much work is done on the box by Fa when the box has moved through vertical distance h=.25m?
2. Relevant equations
mgsin(angle)-Fa=0(constant speed)
mgsin(55)=Fa=24.08N
hyp=opp/sin(55)=.305m
Work=+7.35J (problably minus because the work is pointing down and displacement is up)
mgh=-7.35J

3. The attempt at a solution
So I know that the simple way is just to use mgh. But in my homework the the box is going up, so I assume that the gravity will do negative work. But the answer is positive and they used mgh. They used Wa=-Wg and they they switched the -Wg to +Wg, and i am not sure why they did that. So was what I did correct too?

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2. May 8, 2016

### BvU

Hello Ed,

I don't see $m\vec g\sin\theta$ and $\vec F_a$ pointing in the same direction ? I agree that the component of $\vec F_a$ along the incline should be 24.1 Newton (my $|\vec g| = 9.81$ m/s2). And if $\vec F_a$ does no work perpendicular to the incline (there is no displacement in that direction), but only along the incline, over the given distance, I get a different result !

 I suspect this exercise is a lot more involved then you (and I at first) think. Where in the drawing is the $55 \ ^\circ$ ? Is $\phi = 55^\circ$. In that case: check: "frictionless" and "at constant speed" !
[edit2] suspicion relieved, see below . And I don't get a different answer any more . But $Fa$ is an unknown.

Last edited: May 9, 2016
3. May 8, 2016

### haruspex

I would suggest it is rather less involved than it appears. The trick is to realise what information is irrelevant.
Ed, think of it from the perspective of the box and its overall change of state.

4. May 8, 2016

### BvU

Frictionless and the angle of the incline is not given !

5. May 8, 2016

### haruspex

Is that in response to my post? If so, what point are you making?