What is the total work done by Tom and Joe on their kite?

To determine the total work done by Tom and Joe on their kite, we need to consider how work is calculated. Work is defined as the force applied multiplied by the distance over which that force is applied. In this context, if we assume that both Tom and Joe are contributing equally to lifting the kite, we can analyze their combined efforts.

Considering that there are two individuals working together, if each one is applying a force that, when combined, results in a total force of 12,000 N and they lifted the kite a certain distance, the total work done can be calculated. If they exert this force over a certain distance, you would multiply the combined force by that distance.

When calculating the total work done by Tom and Joe, obtaining 24,000 N • m means that together they are doing significant work, reflecting both the amount of force exerted and the distance over which that force acts.

This conclusion suggests that the correct evaluation of their combined efforts and the distance over which they exerted that force leads us to recognize that 24,000 N • m is the appropriate representation of the work done on the kite. Thus, this reasoning supports why this choice effectively represents their total work.