Neon32
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Homework Statement
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
Here is the solution in the answers sheet. Why the initial potential energy of the Pulley (M) = 0?
Determine the speeds of the 2 masses
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Here is the solution in the answers sheet. Why the initial potential energy of the Pulley (M) = 0?
Discussion
Mentor
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The initial potential energy is not zero in the calculation.
It would not matter - potential energies are arbitrary, only differences in potential energy (before/after) matter. The difference is not zero.
It would not matter - potential energies are arbitrary, only differences in potential energy (before/after) matter. The difference is not zero.
Neon32
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you don't get what I mean.mfb said:
He put the potential zero of the pulley =0. Why is that? The pulley is at a height so it accuires potential energy.
Mentor
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Ah, that.
Same thing: It does not matter, as its height does not change. Any potential energy you assign to it would appear on both sides of the equality, and cancel.
Same thing: It does not matter, as its height does not change. Any potential energy you assign to it would appear on both sides of the equality, and cancel.