Conveyor Belt's Power: Calculating Energy and Power in a Moving System

In summary, sand falls at a rate of 0.5 kg/s onto a conveyor belt moving at a constant speed of 2.0 m/s. When calculating the power expended in driving the belt, the equation becomes P = (dm/dt) * v^2, which equals 2 W. When calculating the rate at which the sand acquires kinetic energy, the equation is W = (0.5 kg/s) * (2 m/s)^2, which equals 1 W. The difference between the two answers is due to the fact that power is the rate of change of energy per second, while speed is the rate of change of distance per second.
  • #1
bakufun
2
0

Homework Statement


Sand falls at a rate of 0.5 kg/s onto a conveyor belt which is moving at a constant speed of 2.0 m/s.

Questions:

a. Find the power expended in driving the belt!
b. Find the rate at which the sand acquires kinetic energy!
c. Account for any difference between the answer in part (a) and (b)


Homework Equations


F = m.(dv/dt) + v (dm/dt)
P = W/t = F.v


The Attempt at a Solution


For question (a), i think:
P = F.v
= [m.(dv/dt) + v (dm/dt)].v ; dv/dt = 0
= (dm/dt) . v^2
= ... W

Is it right ?

For question (b) i have no idea about the question. The question asked about speed or Power ?

Thanks a lot.
 
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  • #2
you know that power = change in energy per second?
Can you calculate the rate of change of KE per second of the sand?
 
  • #3
do you mean like this ?
W = KE / t
= 0.5 m v^2 / t

m/t = 0.5 kg.
v = 2 m/s

so, W = 1 W ? is this right for question (b) ?

and

P = F.v
= [m.(dv/dt) + v (dm/dt)].v ; dv/dt = 0
= (dm/dt) . v^2
= 2 W for question (a) ?
 

1. What is the power source for a conveyor belt?

The power source for a conveyor belt can vary depending on the type of belt and its intended purpose. Some common power sources include electric motors, hydraulic systems, and pneumatic systems.

2. How is the power of a conveyor belt determined?

The power of a conveyor belt is determined by several factors, including the weight of the load being transported, the speed at which the belt is moving, and the friction between the belt and the surface it is moving on. These factors are used to calculate the required power of the conveyor belt's motor or power source.

3. What is the maximum power that a conveyor belt can handle?

The maximum power that a conveyor belt can handle is dependent on the design and construction of the belt, as well as the power source being used. Some conveyor belts are capable of handling thousands of pounds of weight, while others may only be able to handle a few hundred pounds.

4. Can a conveyor belt's power be adjusted?

Yes, the power of a conveyor belt can be adjusted to suit the needs of the application. This can be done by adjusting the speed of the belt or by changing the power source of the belt, such as using a different motor or adjusting the hydraulic or pneumatic pressure.

5. How does the power of a conveyor belt affect its performance?

The power of a conveyor belt plays a crucial role in its performance. If the power is too low, the belt may not be able to move the load efficiently, resulting in slower production times. If the power is too high, it can put unnecessary strain on the belt and its components, leading to potential breakdowns and maintenance issues.

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