In this question use g=9.8g = 9.8g=9.8 m s−2^{-2}−2.
A rescue vehicle of mass 1800 kg tows a trailer of mass 600 kg up a straight road inclined at 8° 8°\,8° to the horizontal. The vehicles are joined by a light rigid tow-bar parallel to the road.
While the vehicle's engine is operating, constant resistances of 700 N and 400 N act on the vehicle and trailer respectively, down the road. The system accelerates up the road at 0.600 m s−2^{-2}−2.
Find the driving force produced by the engine.
Find the tension in the tow-bar.
The engine is then switched off while the system is still moving up the road. Assuming the same resistance forces continue to act, find the acceleration of the system and determine whether the tow-bar is in tension or compression.