2 Quck Questions on Work and Energy

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around two physics problems involving work and energy. For the first question, the correct kinetic energy of a 0.2 kg ball dropped from 8 m should be calculated using the formula KE = (1/2)mv^2, not the incorrect potential energy equation initially used. The second question involves Jane swinging on a vine, where the potential energy at the highest point equals her kinetic energy at the lowest point, suggesting a conservation of energy approach. Participants emphasize the importance of using the correct equations to arrive at accurate answers. Clarifications on energy conservation principles are also discussed to ensure understanding of the concepts.
bigpapasmurf
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Homework Statement



1. If a 0.2 kg ball is dropped from a height of 8 m, what is its kinetic energy when it hits the ground?


2. Jane, looking for Tarzan, is running at top speed (4.6 m/s) and grabs a vine hanging vertically from a tall tree in the jungle. How high can she swing upward?

Homework Equations


Kinetic Energy = (1/2) mass*gravity*height
Potential Energy= mass*gravity*height
not sure if this equation is right... distance=(1/2)(gravity)(time^2)
Velocity= (change in distance)/time


The Attempt at a Solution


my work got deleted for both the question (error in webassign) and now I have no idea how I got the answers. (both wrong) But they were 9.5J for the first one and 14.2m for the second question.
 
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bigpapasmurf said:

Homework Equations


Kinetic Energy = (1/2) mass*gravity*height
Potential Energy= mass*gravity*height
not sure if this equation is right... distance=(1/2)(gravity)(time^2)
Velocity= (change in distance)/time

Your KE equation is wrong. It's mixed up with the correct PE equation. Fix the KE equation, and you should get the correct answers.
 
woops I had it actually I just wrote typed it out wrong it is (1/2)mv^2
 
bigpapasmurf said:
woops I had it actually I just wrote typed it out wrong it is (1/2)mv^2

For part a, maybe I am missing something, but did you say that your answer of 9.5J was correct? because I am thinking otherwise unless I am missing something very obvious.

E(i)=E(f) ---> PE=KE in this case correct?
 
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