Question

The motor of a ski boat generates an average power of 7.30 104 W when the boat is moving at a constant speed of 10 m/s. When the boat is pulling a skier at the same speed, the engine must generate an average power of 8.40 104 W. What is the tension in the tow rope that is pulling the skier?

Answer 1

The difference in power required from the motor. 1.1*10^4 W, is the towing work, which equals rope tension times velocity. Solve for the tension.