Energy Conservation of an object on an incline

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the energy conservation of a 1kg object sliding down a 4m high incline at 53 degrees, initially moving at 2m/s. The object travels 3m horizontally before ascending a 37-degree incline. The participant calculated the distance traveled up the incline, arriving at 2.41m, while the correct answer is 1.95m as per the textbook. The discrepancy arises from a miscalculation in the application of energy conservation principles and the need to adjust for the incline's angle using the sine function.

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  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically energy conservation.
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations and their applications.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, particularly sine and cosine.
  • Experience with friction coefficients and their impact on motion.
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  • Review the principles of energy conservation in physics.
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations in inclined plane scenarios.
  • Study the effects of friction on motion and energy loss.
  • Explore trigonometric applications in physics problems, particularly in incline calculations.
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Students studying physics, educators teaching energy conservation principles, and anyone interested in solving problems related to motion on inclined planes.

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An 1kg object is sliding down a 4m high incline which is inclined at 53 degrees. The initial speed is 2m/s. It then slides on a horizontal section 3m long which is at ground level and then slides up an incline plane that is inclined at 37 degrees. All surfaces have a kinetic coefficient of uc = 0.4. What distance will the object travel up the 37 degree incline before stopping?

Work Done:

Starting off Values:
Vi = 2m/s
Vf = ?
d = 3.19 (using trig)
m = 1kg
uc = 0.4

I drew a diagram and then I figured I would use the laws of conservation formula. I know their is kinetic and potential energy when the object is at a certain height. When the object is on the horizontal surface, their will only be kinetic and friction forces acting on it. So I thought i'd find the object's final speed on the 53degree incline (1/2mVf^2 = 1/2mVi^2 + mgh -fx). After I found Vf, I used that as the new initial speed for the horizontal surface. I then thought i'd find the final speed on the horizontal speed using the laws of conservation of energy (1/2mVf^2 = 1/2mVi^2 -fx). Finally, I took this value and used it as the new initial speed as the object is about to move up the 37 degree incline. I substituted it in the formula: mgh = 1/2mVi^2 - fx.

I keep getting an answer like 2.41m but the answer in the book is 1.95m. I'm not quite sure where I went wrong?
 
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Your idea is right, you may want to re-check you calculations. Also, h is not the required answer - it's h/sin(37).
 

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