Explanation:
Refer to the diagram below. The angle theta is the angle of elevation formed between the horizontal line and the diagonal force being applied (the pulling force). Let x be the horizontal component pulling force, which is the horizontal portion of the right triangle. We know the hypotenuse of this triangle is 55 pounds as it is the force applied.
Use the cosine ratio to help solve for x. Make sure your calculator is in degree mode.
cos(angle) = adjacent/hypotenuse
cos(19) = x/55
x/55 = cos(19)
x = 55*cos(19)
x = 52.0035216579624 which is approximate
Roughly 52.0035216579624 pounds of force is being applied in a pure horizontal direction. The cart moves 30 feet, so,
work = (force)*(displacement)
work = (52.0035216579624)*(30)
work = 1560.10564973888
work = 1560.1 foot-pounds
A foot-pound is a unit of work, similar to how a joule is as well (though a joule measures in kilograms and meters)
