Final answer:
The total gross weight limit for a tractor-trailer in the U.S. is 80,000 lbs or 40 tons. This applies to the combination of the tractor and the trailer together and is enforced for road and bridge safety concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The information about weight limits for tractor trailers, which is related to transportation regulations, rather than a specific physics problem. However, common regulations in the United States dictate that the total gross weight of a tractor-trailer combination cannot exceed 80,000 lbs (pounds) without a special permit. This limit is set to ensure safety on roads and bridges and is subject to federal and state regulations. If a tractor-trailer exceeds this weight, the operator may face fines and be required to offload the excess weight before continuing their journey.
When referencing the weight limit in terms of tons, 80,000 lbs is equivalent to 40 tons. As for the weight of specific items or vehicles, such as a baggage tractor or commercial airplane tractor, these are significantly less than the total gross weight limit for a full tractor-trailer. For example, a baggage tractor may weigh around 650 kg, which converts to approximately 1433 lbs, and is just a fraction of the total weight limit allowed for a tractor-trailer.