Conservation of energy experiment

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a conservation of energy experiment using an air track and a cart of mass m. Participants calculated the kinetic energy (K) and gravitational potential energy (U) to demonstrate that total energy remains constant. It was concluded that the mass does not need to be known, as it cancels out in the equations K=1/2mv^2 and U=mgh, allowing for the demonstration of energy conservation regardless of mass.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy (K) and gravitational potential energy (U)
  • Familiarity with the equations K=1/2mv^2 and U=mgh
  • Basic knowledge of experimental physics and energy conservation principles
  • Ability to perform calculations involving mass, velocity, and height
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced concepts in energy conservation in physics experiments
  • Learn about the implications of mass cancellation in different physical systems
  • Investigate real-world applications of energy conservation principles
  • Study variations of the conservation of energy experiment using different masses
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators conducting energy conservation experiments, and anyone interested in understanding fundamental principles of energy in physical systems.

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Homework Statement


We had an air track and let a cart of mass m travel downhill. The we calculated the velocity and firther the kinetic energy K and the gravitational energy U. We did this to show that the total energy in the system stays constant.

Now I need to answer the question if I could still show that the total energy would be conserved if the mass was unknown.


Homework Equations


K=1/2mv^2
U=mgh



The Attempt at a Solution


I was looking at the parts where the mass would be involved. This seems to be in both formulas. Thus, my guess is that the mass would be cancel out and it would not matter if I know the mass or not. I could write initial kinetic energy + initial potential energy = final kinetic energy + final potential energy.
My problem is that I do not know if I am thinking in the right direction. So, if someone could help me and let me know if I am right or wrong with my thought, that would be great.
Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Yes, you are correct. The mass m would cancel out. Hence, you would not need it to simulate conservation of energy.
 

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