How Much Energy Is Lost to Friction in This Physics Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the energy lost to friction in a physics problem involving a cylinder sliding along a rod. The total work done on the system is 100 J, with kinetic energy increasing by 50 J and gravitational potential energy increasing by 20 J. By applying the principle of conservation of energy, it is established that the work done against friction is 30 J, as 70 J is accounted for by the increases in kinetic and potential energy.

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Homework Statement


In the diagram given, you pull upward on a rope that is attached to a cylinder on a vertical rod. Because the cylinder fits tightly on the rod, the cylinder slides along the rod with considerable friction. Your force does work (W = + 100 J) on the cylinder–rod–Earth system (Fig. 8-23b). An “energy statement” for the system is shown in the diagram: the kinetic energy K increases by 50 J, and the gravitational potential energy Ug increases by 20 J.
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Homework Equations


q=mcdT

The Attempt at a Solution


As far as I know, thermal energy is q=mcdT, but none of those values are given here.
 
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q = mcΔT has no application here since you are not given the mass or the temperature change or the specific heat. You are supposed to determine the work done against friction by applying the principle of conservation of energy. If 70J of work are used to increase kinetic and potential energy, how much of the 100J of work is done against the friction force?

AM
 

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