Calculating Maximum Height of an Arrow with Loss of Mechanical Energy

In summary, a 125 - G arrow is shot vertically upwards with an initial velocity of 28 m/s. Assuming a 30% loss in mechanical energy while ascending, the maximum height above the position it was shot is 28 meters. The calculations used the equations for kinetic and potential energy, as well as the equation for final velocity, to determine the final height.
  • #1
Lil Uzi Vert
6
1

Homework Statement


A 125 - G arrow is shot vertically upwards with a Vi of 28/ms. Assuming a 20% loss in Mechanical Energy while ascending, what maximum height above the position it was shot does it reach?

Homework Equations


Vi= 28m/s
Vf= O m/s
D= ?
a= -9.8 m/s

Vf^2= Vi^2 + 2aD
Eg = mgh
Ek = 1/2mv^2
EM = Eg + Ek (not sure}

The Attempt at a Solution


I did not really understand this question but I tried to make a solution using what I know.
I tried using one of the 5 equations but that did not help so i tried using work and energy equations.

So i did Ek first
Ek= 1/2 mv ^2
Ek = 1/2 (0.125 kg) (28 m/s)^2
Ek = 98 J

Next I tried finding the Eg
Eg = Ek x 0.70
(30% loss of mechanical energy, this is what i am thinking)
Eg = 68.6 J

Eg = mgh
Eg= 0.125 (9.8) h
68.6 = 1.225 h
68.6/1.225= h
h= 55.51 m

Did I do this question right or wrong? I am very confused. Some help would be appreciated!
 
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  • #2
Lil Uzi Vert said:
Assuming a 20% loss in Mechanical Energy
Lil Uzi Vert said:
30% loss of mechanical energy, this is what i am thinking
Where does the 30% come from? Your method is correct.
 
  • #3
Lil Uzi Vert said:
So i did Ek first
Ek= 1/2 mv ^2
Ek = 1/2 (0.125 kg) (28 m/s)^2
Ek = 98 J
Check that calculation. Did you divide by two?
 
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  • #4
Lil Uzi Vert said:
Did I do this question right or wrong?

Yes it's the right approach just check the working as others have suggested.
 
  • #5
kuruman said:
Where does the 30% come from? Your method is correct.
i meant 30%
 
Last edited:
  • #6
gneill said:
Check that calculation. Did you divide by two?
(In the post i meant 30% loss, not 20 % that's why i did multiplying by 0.7.)
I divided by two so the number is 49 J , multiplying it by 0.7 would be 34.3 J
34.3 J / 1.225 = h
H= 28 M exactly
Is this method now correct?
 
  • #7
Lil Uzi Vert said:
(In the post i meant 30% loss, not 20 % that's why i did multiplying by 0.7.)
I divided by two so the number is 49 J , multiplying it by 0.7 would be 34.3 J
34.3 J / 1.225 = h
H= 28 M exactly
Is this method now correct?
Yes. Although "exactly" depends upon your choice of value for g :smile:
 

1. What is mechanical energy?

Mechanical energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion or position. It can be either kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion, or potential energy, which is the energy stored in an object due to its position or shape.

2. How does an arrow lose mechanical energy?

An arrow can lose mechanical energy through various processes, such as air resistance, friction from its contact with the bow, and collisions with objects. As the arrow moves, some of its kinetic energy is converted into other forms of energy, leading to a decrease in its overall mechanical energy.

3. Can an arrow regain its lost mechanical energy?

In some cases, an arrow can regain some of its lost mechanical energy. For example, if an arrow is shot at an upward angle, it will experience a decrease in kinetic energy due to gravity pulling it down. However, as it falls back down, some of its potential energy will be converted back into kinetic energy, allowing it to regain some of its initial mechanical energy.

4. How does the weight of an arrow affect its mechanical energy?

The weight of an arrow can affect its mechanical energy in various ways. A heavier arrow will generally have more potential energy due to its increased mass, but it may also experience more air resistance and friction, causing it to lose more energy. The weight of an arrow can also affect its speed and trajectory, which can impact its overall mechanical energy.

5. Can changing the material of an arrow affect its mechanical energy?

Yes, changing the material of an arrow can affect its mechanical energy. Different materials have different densities, which can impact the weight and potential energy of an arrow. The material can also affect the arrow's shape and surface texture, which can influence factors such as air resistance and friction, ultimately affecting its mechanical energy.

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