Percentage energy loss (mechanical energy) problem

In summary, the problem involves finding the percentage energy loss of an object with mass 2.0 kg as it slides down a low-friction incline. The speed of the object is measured at the bottom and at a height of 0.10 m over the tabletop. The approach involves using the equation mgh(0) + W(other forces) = 0.5mv2 to calculate the work done by other forces. However, the calculation may have some mistakes and it may be necessary to subtract mgh(0) to get the work done alone before dividing by mgh(0).
  • #1
poopandpee
1
0

Homework Statement


Problem: An object with mass 2.0 kg slides down a low-friction incline and its speed measured at the bottom is 2.7 m/s. The object starts sliding at a height of 0.50 m over the tabletop and its speed is measured 0.10 m over the tabletop. How big is the percentage energy loss?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


My attempt: I've tried using this formula: mgh(0) + W(other forces) = 0.5mv2, where m=2.0 kg, h=0.4 m, and v=2.7 Then I found W(other forces) and divided it by mgh(0). However, that did not give a right answer. Any suggestions?
 
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  • #2
The sign of the energy loss is a bit questionable but overall the approach is good. Maybe some mistake in the calculations? You didn't show them.
 
  • #3
Did you remember to multiply by 100 to convert to %?
 
  • #4
You shouldn't divide by the other work, if your equation above is correct you should subtract mgh(0) to get W alone
 
  • #5
NateTheGreatt77 said:
You shouldn't divide by the other work, if your equation above is correct you should subtract mgh(0) to get W alone
That appears to be what @poopandpee did before dividing:
poopandpee said:
Then I found W(other forces)
As others have posted, the method sounds correct, but we need to see the details.
 

1. What is "percentage energy loss" in a mechanical energy problem?

"Percentage energy loss" in a mechanical energy problem refers to the amount of energy that is lost in a system due to factors such as friction, air resistance, or other non-conservative forces. It is usually represented as a percentage of the initial mechanical energy of the system.

2. How is percentage energy loss calculated in a mechanical energy problem?

To calculate percentage energy loss in a mechanical energy problem, you must first determine the initial mechanical energy of the system and the final mechanical energy of the system. Then, subtract the final energy from the initial energy to get the total energy loss. Finally, divide the total energy loss by the initial energy and multiply by 100 to get the percentage energy loss.

3. What factors can contribute to percentage energy loss in a mechanical energy problem?

There are several factors that can contribute to percentage energy loss in a mechanical energy problem. These include friction between surfaces, air resistance, and non-conservative forces such as gravity or magnetic fields. In some cases, energy can also be lost due to imperfections or inefficiencies in the system or equipment being used.

4. How can percentage energy loss affect the outcome of a mechanical energy problem?

Percentage energy loss can have a significant impact on the outcome of a mechanical energy problem. The more energy that is lost, the less energy is available to do work and the less efficient the system becomes. This can result in a decrease in the final velocity or height of an object or a decrease in the amount of work that can be done by the system.

5. How can percentage energy loss be minimized in a mechanical energy problem?

There are several ways to minimize percentage energy loss in a mechanical energy problem. One way is to reduce the amount of friction by using lubricants or smoother surfaces. Another way is to minimize air resistance by streamlining the objects in the system. Additionally, using more efficient equipment and techniques can help reduce energy loss in a mechanical energy problem.

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