Solving Work Done by Pushing a Lawnmower

In summary, a man exerts a force of 200N while pushing a lawnmower, with the vertical component of this force being 80N. To determine the work done in pushing the lawnmower 6.0m horizontally, the angle at which the 200N force is directed must be found. A sketch should be made and Pythagoras' theorem should be used. The angle is not 68 degrees. Once the angle is determined, it can be used to calculate the work done.
  • #1
fleur
10
0

Homework Statement


A man pushes a lawnmower with a force of 200N. If the vertical component of this force is 80N how much work is done in pushing the lawnmower 6.0m horizontally?

Homework Equations


Work=force x distance

The Attempt at a Solution


Firstly I have to find the angle to the ground at which the 200N force is directed.
However i am not sure on how to do that.
 
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  • #2
Make a sketch and remember Pythagoras
 
  • #3
BvU said:
Make a sketch and remember Pythagoras
Would the angle be 68 because inverse tan(200/80)
 
  • #4
68 radians ? No, degrees I hope.
Never mind: once you have the angle, what are you going to use it for ?
And: Sketch ?
 

Related to Solving Work Done by Pushing a Lawnmower

1. How do I calculate the work done by pushing a lawnmower?

The work done by pushing a lawnmower can be calculated by multiplying the force applied to push the lawnmower by the distance over which the lawnmower is pushed. This can be represented by the formula W = F x d, where W is the work done, F is the force applied, and d is the distance.

2. What is the unit of measurement for work?

The unit of measurement for work is joules (J). This unit is derived from the basic units of force (newtons) and distance (meters) in the formula W = F x d.

3. How does the weight of the lawnmower affect the work done?

The weight of the lawnmower affects the work done by increasing the force required to push it. The heavier the lawnmower, the more force is needed to overcome its weight and move it over a certain distance. This results in more work being done.

4. What other factors can affect the work done when pushing a lawnmower?

Apart from the weight of the lawnmower, other factors that can affect the work done include the terrain or surface being mowed, the condition of the lawnmower (such as blade sharpness and wheel alignment), and the physical strength and effort exerted by the person pushing the lawnmower.

5. Can work be negative when pushing a lawnmower?

Yes, work can be negative when pushing a lawnmower. This occurs when the lawnmower moves in the opposite direction of the applied force, such as when someone is trying to slow down or stop a lawnmower from rolling down a hill. In this case, the work done is considered to be negative or in the opposite direction of the motion.

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