Energy Conservation: Solving the 670kg Meteorite Problem

  • Thread starter thenewbosco
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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a meteorite crashing into Earth and the resulting increase in internal energy and temperature. The specific heat of liquid and gaseous aluminum is provided, along with the mass and speed of the meteorite. The law of conservation of energy is mentioned and it is stated that the change in kinetic energy, potential energy, and thermal energy must equal zero. It is also noted that the meteor's gravitational potential energy is converted to heat upon impact with Earth.
  • #1
thenewbosco
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Energy Conservation Question

here is a problem i need help getting started on:

A 670kg meteorite composed of aluminum far from the Earth has a temperature of -15C and moves with a speed of 14km/s relative to earth.
As it crashes, assume that the resulting additional internal energy is shared equally between the meteor and the planet and that all of the material of the meteor rises to the same final temperature. Find this temperature.

assume that the specific heat of liquid and gaseous aluminum is 1170 J/kg*C.

No idea how to begin this although i am reminded not to forget about gravitational potential energy,
thanks for some help on this one
 
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  • #2
no help on this...
 
  • #3
E = KE + PE
 
  • #4
right i know this is to be used but i don't know how to set up the initial and final energies. and also the wording about the energy being equally shared.

can i get some more clarification on how to set these equations up.
thanks
 
  • #5
i really need some help with this one...
 
  • #6
no one can help ??
 
  • #7
thenewbosco said:
As it crashes, assume that the resulting additional internal energy is shared equally between the meteor and the planet and that all of the material of the meteor rises to the same final temperature.
What's the KE of the meteor when it hits earth? (It falls from "infinitely" far away to the surface of the earth. What's the change in gravitational PE?)

Assume half of that energy remains in the meteor. You have the specific heat and the mass of the meteor; calculate the temperature change.
 
  • #8
Remember that initial energy is equal to final energy by the law of conservation of energy and that change in K+ change in U+change in Q = 0 as well, where U is potential energy, Q is thermal energy and K is kinetic energy.

Hope that helps some :P
 
  • #9
Could someone please explain why the meteor's gravitational potential energy is converted to heat after the collision? I understand why the meteor's kinetic energy is converted to heat; after all, it's moving very quickly and then stops. That kinetic energy must go somewhere! But why is there any change in the meteor's gravitational potential energy from right before to right after the meteor strikes the Earth?
 
  • #10
Bump!
 

1. What is energy conservation and why is it important in solving the 670kg meteorite problem?

Energy conservation refers to the practice of reducing energy consumption in order to preserve natural resources and protect the environment. In the context of solving the 670kg meteorite problem, energy conservation is important because it can help reduce the amount of energy needed to move or destroy the meteorite, thus minimizing potential damage and impact on the environment.

2. How can energy conservation be applied to solve the 670kg meteorite problem?

Energy conservation can be applied in various ways to solve the 670kg meteorite problem. For instance, using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power to power equipment and machinery involved in moving or destroying the meteorite can help reduce the use of fossil fuels and minimize carbon emissions. Additionally, implementing energy-efficient technologies and techniques, such as using lighter and more aerodynamic materials, can also help conserve energy in the process.

3. Are there any challenges in implementing energy conservation in solving the 670kg meteorite problem?

Yes, there may be challenges in implementing energy conservation in solving the 670kg meteorite problem. For example, using renewable energy sources may require significant upfront costs and infrastructure, and it may not always be feasible to implement energy-efficient technologies in certain situations. Additionally, there may be logistical and technical challenges in coordinating the use of energy conservation methods with other efforts to move or destroy the meteorite.

4. What are the potential benefits of using energy conservation in solving the 670kg meteorite problem?

The potential benefits of using energy conservation in solving the 670kg meteorite problem are numerous. By reducing energy consumption, we can reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and minimize carbon emissions, thus helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Additionally, using energy conservation methods can also help reduce costs and improve efficiency in solving the meteorite problem.

5. How can individuals contribute to energy conservation in solving the 670kg meteorite problem?

Individuals can contribute to energy conservation in solving the 670kg meteorite problem by making small but impactful changes in their daily lives. This can include using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone, using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, and reducing overall energy consumption. Additionally, individuals can also advocate for and support larger-scale energy conservation efforts in their communities and governments.

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