(Inverse determination of angle from work) A worker pulls a small cart by applying a…
PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
(Inverse determination of angle from work)
A worker pulls a small cart by applying a constant 120N force with the handle inclined upward at an angle θ to the horizontal. The cart travels 15m along a horizontal floor, and the work done on the cart is measured to be 900J.
(a) Determine the value of θ.
(b) The worker wants to achieve the same 900J of work over the same 15m distance but prefers to exert a 150N pull. Calculate the new angle the worker must hold the handle at.
(c) Compare the horizontal components of the pulling force in parts (a) and (b) and comment on whether holding the handle lower or higher makes the pulling effort easier in terms of the horizontal force required.