Concept Questions regarding Work

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The discussion centers around a physics problem involving two objects of unequal mass sliding down a slope and encountering friction. The claim is that the lighter mass will travel further on a rough surface, which is stated to be false. The key equations referenced include work, kinetic energy, and potential gravitational energy, with an emphasis on how mass affects motion under friction. The confusion arises from understanding the relationship between mass, kinetic energy, and the work done against friction. Ultimately, the conclusion is that the lighter mass does not travel further due to the equal effect of friction on both masses.
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Homework Statement



Two objects with unequal mass are released from rest from the same height. They slide without friction down a slope and then encounter a rough horizontal region. The coefficient of kinetic friction in the rough region is the same for both masses. The lighter mass will travel further along the rough region before stopping.
True or False?

Homework Equations



Work = Force•displacement•cosθ (angle between force and displacement)
Kinetic Energy = .5•m•v^2
Potential Gravitational Energy: m•g•h

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer is False; but I can't grasp the concept.
 
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TJDF said:

Homework Statement



Two objects with unequal mass are released from rest from the same height. They slide without friction down a slope and then encounter a rough horizontal region. The coefficient of kinetic friction in the rough region is the same for both masses. The lighter mass will travel further along the rough region before stopping.
True or False?

Homework Equations



Work = Force•displacement•cosθ (angle between force and displacement)
Kinetic Energy = .5•m•v^2
Potential Gravitational Energy: m•g•h

The Attempt at a Solution



The answer is False; but I can't grasp the concept.

Why not?

Write out the equation for what happens.

m*g*h = 1/2*m*v2 - u*m*g*d

What happens if you divide the equation by m?
 

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