Acceleration of Rollercoaster hill?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a rollercoaster train as it descends from a height of 16.155 meters. Key data includes a descent time of 3.5 seconds and the use of the equation d = V(initial)(t) + 0.5(a)(t)^2. Participants highlight the relationship between potential energy and kinetic energy, leading to the formula v^2 = 2*g*h, which allows for the determination of velocity at the bottom of the hill and subsequently the acceleration using v = a*t.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically d = V(initial)(t) + 0.5(a)(t)^2
  • Knowledge of energy conservation principles, particularly potential and kinetic energy
  • Familiarity with gravitational acceleration (g = 9.81 m/s²)
  • Ability to interpret and analyze motion diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
  • Study energy conservation in mechanical systems, focusing on potential and kinetic energy
  • Learn how to calculate acceleration from velocity and time using v = a*t
  • Explore the effects of friction and air resistance on rollercoaster dynamics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of rollercoaster motion and acceleration calculations.

alliereid
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Homework Statement


Calculate the acceleration of the train during the trip down the first hill

Time for train to go from top of hill to bottom:3.5 s
Time for train to pass point at top of hill 1.5s
Time for train to go from bottom to top of first hill:7 s
Time for train to pass point of bottom of hill:1s
Height of hill: 16.155 m

Homework Equations



d=V(initial)(t)+.5(a)(t)^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried using that equation but there is two variables missing distance and acceleration. I can't use the height of the hill because isn't this a x problem (parallel problem)? I don't understand how I can find the acceleration of the rollercoaster train during the trip down the hill with only this data.
 
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With no diagram you need to be more specific.
 
Okay I attached a diagram. As you can see, the train is going up and I'm trying to find the accel from the top of the hill to the bottom.
 

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Until approved no one can see the picture.

But consider the potential energy at the top and the velocity it will have at the bottom of the hill.

m*g*h = 1/2*m*v2

so ...

v2 = 2*g*h

Also you should know that

v = a*t

Looks like you may have enough info after all.
 

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