What is the work energy theorem for a car at different distances?

In summary, the speed of the 2.0kg model car at (a) x=3.0m is 2.44m/s, at (b) x=4.0m is 0m/s, and at (c) x=7.0m is also 0m/s. However, the calculation for (a) is incorrect as the force is not constant and the area should be calculated differently.
  • #1
Llacrossedude
3
0
1. Homework Statement
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Suppose the 2.0kg model car is initially at rest at x=0 and F is the net force acting on it. Use the work energy theorem to find the speed of the car at (a) x=3.0m, (b) x=4.0m, and (c) x=7.0m.

YF-06-32.jpg
2. Homework Equations

Kf-Ki
.5mvf2-.5mvi2
W=DeltaK
W=F*d

3. The Attempt at a Solution

3.0m
W=2N*3m=6J
W=.5(m)(v)2
v2=2W/m
v2=2(6J)/2.0kg
sqrt(6)=2.44m/s

4.0m
W=0N*4m=0J
W=.5(m)(v)2
v2=2W/m
v2=2(0J)/2.0kg
sqrt(0)=0m/s

7.0m
W=0N*4m=0J
W=.5(m)(v)2
v2=2W/m
v2=2(0J)/2.0kg
sqrt(0)=0m/s

Though it seems like the car slowing down there would still be work, so would the speed for both 4m and 7m both be 0m/s?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
3.0m
W=2N*3m=6J
W=.5(m)(v)2
v2=2W/m
v2=2(6J)/2.0kg
sqrt(6)=2.44m/s
--------------------------
that is wrong because W is the area under the curve so for a constant force the height is the same so it is a rectangle with the area F*x
but here it is not a constant force you should take the area of a triangle till x =2 and from 2 to 3 a rectangle
 

Related to What is the work energy theorem for a car at different distances?

1. What is the Work Energy Theorem of a car?

The Work Energy Theorem of a car is a principle in physics that states that the work done on a car is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. In other words, the energy transferred to a car through work is equal to the change in its speed or motion.

2. How does the Work Energy Theorem apply to a car?

The Work Energy Theorem applies to a car because a car is a physical object that requires energy to move. When work is done on a car, such as through the application of a force, the car gains kinetic energy and its speed increases. This can be observed when a car accelerates from a stop or increases its speed when going downhill.

3. What factors affect the work done on a car?

The work done on a car is affected by several factors, including the magnitude and direction of the force applied, the distance over which the force is applied, and the angle at which the force is applied. The weight of the car and any external forces, such as friction, can also affect the work done on the car.

4. Can the Work Energy Theorem be used to calculate a car's speed?

Yes, the Work Energy Theorem can be used to calculate a car's speed if the initial and final kinetic energies are known. The equation for the Work Energy Theorem is: W = ΔK = ½mv2f - ½mv2i, where W is the work done, ΔK is the change in kinetic energy, m is the mass of the car, vi is the initial velocity, and vf is the final velocity.

5. How is the Work Energy Theorem related to the Law of Conservation of Energy?

The Work Energy Theorem and the Law of Conservation of Energy are closely related. The Work Energy Theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy, while the Law of Conservation of Energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. In the case of a car, the work done on the car is equal to the change in its kinetic energy, which is a form of energy transfer as the car gains or loses speed.

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