Calculating Total Energy and Vertical Height of Rolling Sphere on Incline

AI Thread Summary
The total energy of a rolling sphere is calculated using the formula (1/2)mv^2 + (1/5)mv^2, which accounts for both translational and rotational kinetic energy. The angle of the incline, 37 degrees, is not needed for calculating total energy but is essential for determining the vertical height the sphere reaches on the incline. To find the vertical height, the gravitational potential energy formula can be applied, using the total energy calculated earlier. The discussion highlights the importance of distinguishing between energy calculations and the effects of incline angles. Overall, the angle influences height calculations but not the total energy of the sphere.
kbyws37
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A solid sphere of mass 0.599 kg rolls without slipping along a horizontal surface with a translational speed of 5.07 m/s. It comes to an incline that makes an angle of 37.0° with the horizontal surface.

(a) What is the total energy of the rolling sphere? Neglect energy losses due to friction.
(b) To what vertical height above the horizontal surface does the sphere rise on the incline?


To find the total energy of a rolling sphere...
(1/2)mv^2 + (1/5)mv^2
but how would i incorporate 37 degrees?
 
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kbyws37 said:
but how would i incorporate 37 degrees?
Maybe you don't have to
 
It only makes a difference if you have to take friction into account.
 
You'll need the angle in (b).
 
radou said:
You'll need the angle in (b).
Can you convince me?
 
It is not necessary for the 'vertical' height. Unless you take into account other forces which makes it more complicated. But then, it does matter.
 
OlderDan said:
Can you convince me?

Actually, by thinking over, I can't. :smile:

Apologies, I hope I didn't cause confusion.
 
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