Question

A 5,700 kg airplane flies at a speed of 223 m/s at a height of 10,700 m above the ground.

What is the total mechanical energy of the airplane?

Answer 1

To find the total mechanical energy of the airplane, we need to add the potential energy and kinetic energy:

Potential Energy = mgh

where m = mass, g = acceleration due to gravity, and h = height

Kinetic Energy = (1/2)mv^2

where v = velocity

Potential Energy = (5700 kg)(9.81 m/s^2)(10700 m) = 6.14 x 10^8 J

Kinetic Energy = (1/2)(5700 kg)(223 m/s)^2 = 1.68 x 10^9 J

Total Mechanical Energy = Potential Energy + Kinetic Energy

= 6.14 x 10^8 J + 1.68 x 10^9 J

= 2.29 x 10^9 J

Therefore, the total mechanical energy of the airplane is 2.29 x 10^9 J.