Energy and Friction in a block

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of potential and kinetic energy on a ramp and the transfer of that energy to work done by friction. The calculations are correct, but there may be an error in the problem statement regarding the coefficient of kinetic friction. The correct value is likely 0.1, leading to the answer of 45 m for the distance traveled.
  • #1
HaoPhysics
26
0

Homework Statement


upload_2017-5-5_18-2-1.png


Homework Equations


The block has potential energy U at the top of the ramp, and this is transferred to kinetic energy K at the bottom, which is then trasnfered to work done by friction, Wfr.
U = K Conservation of energy
K = Wfr Conservation of energy
g = 10 m/s2

The Attempt at a Solution


U = mgh = 3*45*10 = 1350 J
1350 J = Wfr = Ffr * d = m*g*u*d = 3*10*1*d
1350 = 30*d
d = 45 m

This does not match the answers. Am I doing anything wrong?
 
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  • #2
Your calculations are correct. There is likely an error in the problem statement. I suspect that they intended the coefficient of kinetic friction to be 0.1. Your answer of 45 m is correct for the given information.
 
  • #3
gneill said:
Your calculations are correct. There is likely an error in the problem statement. I suspect that they intended the coefficient of kinetic friction to be 0.1. Your answer of 45 m is correct for the given information.

That is a very good point. We usually don't see coefficients of friction to be 1.0, so it probably was 0.1. I just wanted to make sure my understanding of work-energy relationship was correct. Thanks!
 

What is energy and friction?

Energy is the ability to do work, while friction is the force that opposes motion between two surfaces in contact.

What are the different forms of energy involved in a block?

The different forms of energy involved in a block include kinetic energy (energy of motion), potential energy (energy due to position), and thermal energy (energy due to heat).

How is energy converted into friction in a block?

When a block is in motion, the kinetic energy is converted into thermal energy due to friction between the surfaces. This results in a decrease in the overall energy of the system.

How does the mass of a block affect energy and friction?

The mass of a block affects the amount of energy required to move the block and the amount of friction generated. A heavier block will require more energy to move and will also generate more friction.

What factors can affect the amount of friction in a block?

The amount of friction in a block can be affected by the surfaces in contact, the force pressing the surfaces together (normal force), and the roughness or smoothness of the surfaces.

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