Calculating Work Done: Elevator Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the work done in an elevator system involving a 3000 lb cabin and a 3200 lb counterweight, lifted 120 feet. The work-energy theorem is applied to determine the change in energy, with gravitational potential energy (GPE) as a key concept. Participants clarify the use of the formula GPE = mgh, where 'm' is mass, 'g' is gravitational acceleration, and 'h' is height. The conversation emphasizes the importance of defining the coordinate axis for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational potential energy (GPE)
  • Familiarity with the work-energy theorem
  • Basic knowledge of physics concepts related to forces and motion
  • Ability to perform calculations involving mass, height, and gravitational acceleration
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the work-energy theorem in detail
  • Learn how to calculate gravitational potential energy using the formula GPE = mgh
  • Explore the dynamics of elevator systems and counterweights
  • Investigate the implications of coordinate systems in physics problems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of elevator systems and the application of the work-energy theorem in real-world scenarios.

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An elevator cabin which weighs 3000 lb is lifted up 120 feet. It is connected with a counterweight of 3200 lb by a cable of length 200 feet weighing 4 lb per feet.

What work is done (or gained) if

a) the counterweight comes to rest at the same position as original position of the cabin,

b) 20 feet below the original position of the cabin.

Assume that the circumference of the turning wheel of the cable is 10 feet.
 
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I would use the work-energy theorem here. The change in energy will be the amount of work done. Can you compute $\Delta E$?
 
I don't know how to do this.Can you explain this for me?
 
First let me ask if this is for a physics course or for a calculus course...i.e., are you expected to do this dynamically or are you allowed to use energy considerations. Have you recently been studying gravitational potential energy?
 
It's calculus,yes we can use physics equations.And I do know some..But I don't know where to begin.
MarkFL said:
First let me ask if this is for a physics course or for a calculus course...i.e., are you expected to do this dynamically or are you allowed to use energy considerations. Have you recently been studying gravitational potential energy?
 
Okay, do you know how to determine the gravitational potential energy of an object?
 
MarkFL said:
Okay, do you know how to determine the gravitational potential energy of an object?

mgh?
 
Yes, good! :D

So where do you think would be an appropriate place to orient the origin of our coordinate axis?
 

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