Object sliding down inclined plane

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around an object sliding down an inclined plane with a specified angle and initial speed. Participants are exploring the application of energy conservation principles to determine the final speed of the object at the bottom of the incline, while neglecting friction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply the conservation of mechanical energy equation, questioning the correct height to use in their calculations. There is a focus on understanding the relationship between the incline length and the vertical height.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance regarding the calculation of height, suggesting the use of the sine function to determine the vertical distance. Multiple interpretations of the height calculation are being explored, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct interpretation of the height in relation to the incline, with participants clarifying the distinction between the distance along the incline and the vertical height. No explicit consensus has been reached on the final speed calculation.

akatsafa
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An object slides down an inclined plane of angle 30 degrees and of incline length 4m. If the initial speed of the object is 5m/s directed down the incline, what is the speed at the bottom? Neglect friction.

I used Kinitial+Uinitial=Kfinal+Ufinal. I got 2gh+5^2=v^2, but when I solve for v, I get 10.17m/s. What am I doing wrong?
 
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akatsafa said:
I used Kinitial+Uinitial=Kfinal+Ufinal. I got 2gh+5^2=v^2, but when I solve for v, I get 10.17m/s. What am I doing wrong?
What did you use for h? h must be the vertical distance the object moves, not the distance along the incline.
 
Should I use 4sin30 as my height?
 
akatsafa said:
Should I use 4sin30 as my height?
Yes. That's the height.
 

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