Work Sleigh Problem: Calculating Horse Work & Power

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In summary, the conversation discusses a sleigh being pulled by one horse on a snowy surface with a constant velocity and a distance of .750 km. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the sleigh and snow is 0.250. The conversation then asks for the work done by the horse and the power it must deliver for the trip to take 10.0 mins. The formula for work is mentioned in terms of the force applied by the horse and the distance over which it acts. The discussion also reminds us that the horse moves at constant speed, so its force against friction must be in accordance with Newton's first law. Finally, the conversation notes that power is simply work divided by time.
  • #1
celcon
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A sleigh of mass 120.0kg is pulled by one horse at a constant velocity for a distance of .750 km on a level snowy surface. the coefficient of kinetic friction between the sleigh runners and the snow is 0.250. A) what is the work done by the horse? B) what power must the horse deliver to the sliegh for the trip to take 10.0 mins?

Could someone point me in the right direction on this one?
I am lost

Anyone that can help please let me know I also have some other problems
 
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  • #2
OK, please post 'em separately and welcome to the Forums. What is the formula for work in terms of the force applied by the horse and the distance over which it acts? If the horse moves at constant speed, what must be its force against friction in light of Newton 1?
 
  • #3
And for part B, remember that power is merely work/time
 

Related to Work Sleigh Problem: Calculating Horse Work & Power

1. What is the "Work Sleigh Problem" and why is it important?

The "Work Sleigh Problem" is a mathematical problem that involves calculating the amount of work and power required for a horse to pull a sleigh over a certain distance, taking into account factors such as weight of the sleigh, friction, and the horse's strength. It is important because it can help us understand the mechanics of horse-drawn transportation and the amount of effort required for it to function efficiently.

2. How do you calculate the work done by a horse pulling a sleigh?

The work done by a horse pulling a sleigh can be calculated using the formula W = F x d, where W represents work, F represents the force applied by the horse, and d represents the distance over which the force is applied. This formula takes into account the force required to overcome friction and move the weight of the sleigh.

3. What is the difference between work and power in the context of the "Work Sleigh Problem"?

Work and power are closely related concepts, but they have different meanings in the context of the "Work Sleigh Problem." Work is the amount of energy required to move an object over a certain distance, while power is the rate at which work is done. In other words, power is the amount of work done per unit of time. In the "Work Sleigh Problem," power is important because it tells us how much work a horse can do in a given amount of time, which is a crucial factor in determining the efficiency of horse-drawn transportation.

4. How does the weight of the sleigh affect the work and power required for a horse to pull it?

The weight of the sleigh has a direct impact on the work and power required for a horse to pull it. The heavier the sleigh, the more force is required to move it, and therefore the more work the horse has to do. This also means that more power is needed to move the sleigh at a certain speed. In order to decrease the amount of work and power required, it is important to design sleighs that are as lightweight as possible while still being able to carry the necessary load.

5. How can the "Work Sleigh Problem" be applied to other forms of transportation?

The principles and calculations involved in the "Work Sleigh Problem" can be applied to other forms of transportation, such as cars, trains, and airplanes. While the specific factors and variables may differ, the basic concept of calculating work and power remains the same. This problem can also be used to analyze the efficiency of different modes of transportation and identify ways to improve their design and performance.

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