Physics
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A fighter jet is launched from an aircraft carrier with the aid of its own engines and a steam-powered catapult. The thrust of its engines is 2.1 105 N. In being launched from rest it moves through a distance of 87 m and has a kinetic energy of 3.7 107 J at lift-off. What is the work done on the jet by the catapult?
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The work done on the jet by the catapult is equal to the increase in kinetic energy of the jet: 3.7 x 10^7 J. This energy would have to be transferred to the jet by force exerted over the distance of 87 m, so the work done is the product of the force and the distance, which is 2.1 x 105 x 87 = 184.7 x 105 J. Therefore, the work done on the jet by the catapult is 184.7 x 105 J.
