A tractor T is pulling two trailers, M₁ and M₂, with a constant acceleration. T has a mass of 200 kg, M₁ has a mass of 100 kg, and M₂ has a mass of 150 kg. If the forward acceleration is 0.60 m/s², then the horizontal force on the tractor due to the ground is (ignore air resistance) A) 270 N backward. B) 270 N forward. C) 150 N backward. D) 150 N forward. E) 90 N forward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To find the horizontal force on the tractor due to the ground, we need to use Newton's second law, which states that force is equal to mass times acceleration (F=ma). The total mass of the system (tractor and two trailers) is 200 kg + 100 kg + 150 kg = 450 kg. Then, the total force required to accelerate the system at 0.60 m/s^2 is F = ma = (450 kg)(0.60 m/s^2) = 270 N. Since the system is moving forward, the force on the tractor due to the ground must also be forward, so the correct answer is B.

A Tractor T Is Pulling Two Trailers, M1 and M2

A Tractor T Is Pulling Two Trailers, M₁ and M₂