Calculating Maximum Height of an Arrow with Loss of Mechanical Energy

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the maximum height reached by a 125 g arrow shot vertically upwards with an initial velocity of 28 m/s, while accounting for a loss of mechanical energy during ascent. The discussion centers around the application of energy conservation principles and the effects of energy loss on the height calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of kinetic and gravitational potential energy equations, with one participant attempting to calculate the initial kinetic energy and then adjusting for energy loss. Questions arise regarding the percentage of energy loss and its implications on calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, checking calculations, and clarifying assumptions about energy loss. There is a recognition of the correct approach, but some confusion remains regarding the specifics of the energy loss percentage and its application in the calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is a discrepancy in the stated percentage of mechanical energy loss, with references to both 20% and 30%. This inconsistency is being examined as part of the discussion.

Lil Uzi Vert
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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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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.
 
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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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.
 
kuruman said:
Where does the 30% come from? Your method is correct.
i meant 30%
 
Last edited:
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?
 
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:
 

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