Conservation of Energy Ball Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving a 2.00-kg ball attached to a 10-lb (44.5-N) fishing line, released from a horizontal position. The key equation utilized is the Conservation of Energy: Ki + Ui = Kf + Uf. Participants express uncertainty about determining the angle θ at which the fishing line will break, as well as the forces acting on the line during the ball's descent. The critical force at which the line breaks is established as 44.5 N, correlating with the fishing line's specifications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Conservation of Energy principles
  • Familiarity with forces and tension in physics
  • Knowledge of potential and kinetic energy calculations
  • Basic trigonometry for angle measurements
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the potential and kinetic energy changes in the system
  • Explore the relationship between tension in the fishing line and the angle θ
  • Investigate the dynamics of forces acting on the ball as it swings
  • Learn about the critical failure points of materials under tension
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and energy conservation, as well as educators looking for practical examples of energy principles in action.

clairez93
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Homework Statement



A 2.00-kg ball is attached to the bottom end of a length of 10-lb (44.5-N) fishing line. The top end of the fishing line is held stationary. The ball is released from rest while the line is taut and horizontal ([tex]\theta[/tex]) = 90.0 degrees). At what angle [tex]\theta[/tex] (measured from the vertical) will the fishing line break?

Homework Equations



Conservation of Energy:
Ki + Ui = Kf + Uf


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm pretty sure that I have to start with the conservation of energy equation, however, I am not quite sure that I have enough numbers to put into solve for anything. Also, I have no idea what circumstances would cause the fishing line to break. I'm just clueless as to where to begin here.
 
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clairez93 said:

Homework Statement



A 2.00-kg ball is attached to the bottom end of a length of 10-lb (44.5-N) fishing line. The top end of the fishing line is held stationary. The ball is released from rest while the line is taut and horizontal ([tex]\theta[/tex]) = 90.0 degrees). At what angle [tex]\theta[/tex] (measured from the vertical) will the fishing line break?

Homework Equations



Conservation of Energy:
Ki + Ui = Kf + Uf


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm pretty sure that I have to start with the conservation of energy equation, however, I am not quite sure that I have enough numbers to put into solve for anything. Also, I have no idea what circumstances would cause the fishing line to break. I'm just clueless as to where to begin here.

At what force will the line break? 10 lb test line breaks at ...44.5N? That's what it looks like.

So ... what will the force on the line be?

Doesn't the change in potential energy = kinetic? Might that have something to do with the velocity?

Won't there also be a component of gravity acting on the weight?
 

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