Final answer:
The work done by the boat on Matthew is calculated using the formula: Work = Force x Distance x Cos(angle), yielding approximately 12,375 Joules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asks what work has been done on Matthew by the boat while waterskiing at an angle of 8.0°. To calculate the work done by the boat, we use the formula: Work = Force x Distance x Cos(θ), where θ is the angle between the force and the direction of motion. Since the angle remains constant at 8.0°, and we are given the force of 250 newtons and a distance of 50 meters, we can compute Matthew's work.
Work = 250 N x 50 m x Cos(8.0°)
First, calculate the cosine of 8.0°, and then multiply by the force and the distance. For the angle given, Cos(8.0°) is approximately 0.990. Therefore, Work ≈ 250 N x 50 m x 0.990 = 12375 Joules.
So, the work done by the boat on Matthew is approximately 12,375 Joules.