Hwk. Problem:Gravitational Potential Energy

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving gravitational potential energy, specifically calculating the change in potential energy for a skier using a ski lift. The scenario includes a skier's mass, the length of the lift, and the angle of the lift with respect to the horizontal.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the potential energy formula but is uncertain about how to incorporate the angle of the lift. Some participants question the relevance of the angle in the context of calculating potential energy.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the significance of the angle and its impact on the potential energy calculation. Some guidance has been provided regarding the formula for potential energy, but there is still confusion about the role of the angle.

Contextual Notes

There is a suggestion that the angle may not be necessary for the calculation, leading to questions about how to approach the problem without it. The original poster expresses difficulty in understanding the problem setup.

shawonna23
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A 70.0 kg skier rides a 2860 m long lift to the top of a mountain. The lift makes an angle of 14.8° with the horizontal. What is the change in the skier's gravitational potential energy?

Would I use the equation: PE= (mg*final height) - (mg*initial height)? What do I do with the 14.8degrees? Please help. I'm stuck.
 
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Potential energy does not have anything to do with angles. All that matters is the change in altitude. The angle was provided specifically to confuse you.

- Warren
 
Problem: Gravitational Potential Energy

if the 14.8 degrees is useless, what would i have to do to solve the problem. I don't get it?
 
The change in gravitational potential energy when moving a mass m through a height h is just

[tex]\Delta PE = m g \Delta h[/tex]

- Warren
 

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