Energy Problems (Help Greatly Needed)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving physics problems related to energy conservation and friction. The user struggles with deriving the correct equations for various scenarios involving blocks and hanging masses. Key equations discussed include energy conservation equations and the role of friction in determining velocity and distance. The user receives guidance on correcting their approach and incorporating friction into their calculations.

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  • Understanding of energy conservation principles in physics
  • Familiarity with friction coefficients and their application
  • Knowledge of kinematics and dynamics equations
  • Ability to interpret and analyze physics problems involving multiple objects
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  • Review the concept of energy conservation in mechanical systems
  • Study the effects of friction on motion and energy loss
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions in physics problems involving angles
  • Practice solving complex physics problems with multiple variables and constraints
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Students studying physics, particularly those tackling problems related to energy, friction, and motion dynamics. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in mechanics.

Double A
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I am having some difficulty answering a few problems on my physics homework.
I don't think that I am coming up with the right equations for given situations in the problems. The questions are as follows:

1. http://herograw.com/8-31.JPG

For this question I am getting [tex]- \frac{1}{2} m_1v^2 - \frac{1}{2} m_1v^2+m_2g\Delta h=-m_1\mu_kd[/tex] where m1 is the block in contact with the surface and m2 is the hanging sphere. When I solve the equation for v (velocity), I get v=4.77 m/s. However, I should be getting a result of 3.74 m/s.

2. http://herograw.com/8-48.JPG

For this equation I get [tex]mgy_{max}-mgh=-mg \mu_k d[/tex] but there needs to be something with the angle to derive that equation given in the problem.

3. http://herograw.com/8-60.JPG
http://herograw.com/figure8.60.JPG

When doing part (a) I was using the equation [tex]\frac{1}{2} m v^2+\frac{1}{2} k d^2=0[/tex]to find d. I got d=0.424 m but for part (b) I would just get v=3 m/s which is given in the question when the object is moving to the right. I'm not sure if this is right or if I'm approaching the question correctly.

4. http://herograw.com/8-72.JPG

For this question I was able to find part (b) but I'm not sure how to start in finding part (a).

Any Help is greatly appreciated.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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1)

You should have

[tex]\frac{1}{2}m_{1}v^2 + \frac{1}{2}m_{2}v^2 - m_{2}gh = -\mu m_{1}gh[/tex]

2)
You should have

[tex]mgy_{max} - mgh = -\mu mgcos\theta \frac{y_{max}}{sin\theta}[/tex]

3) Read the problem again you seem to forgot friction on this problem
 
Last edited:
I know that there is friction but when does it need to be accounted for?

If I were to use [tex]\frac{1}{2} mv^2+\frac{1}{2} kd^2=-\mu_kmgd[/tex] I would have two variables to solve for because I do not know what the distance the block is sliding before it reaches the spring. Or are you saying that I need to use this equation for the other parts of the question if that is the right equation.
 

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