Energy Equation for a Roller Coaster on a Full Circular Loop

In summary, the conversation discusses the energy equation for a roller coaster in motion from the ground to the top of a full circular loop, as well as the question of whether the car would still have kinetic energy at the top of the loop. The homework equations mentioned are the kinetic energy equation (1/2m(v^2)) and the gravitational potential energy equation (Ug = mgh). The attempted solution involves a yes or no question and a potentially incorrect equation. To properly answer the question, work would need to be shown, specifically a calculation of the kinetic energy at point B and knowledge of the kinetic energy at point A. The correct expression for gravitational potential energy is also provided.
  • #1
Np14
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2

Homework Statement


What is the energy equation for a roller coaster already in motion from the ground with to the top of a full circular loop = point B in the image. My question is would the car still have kinetic energy at the top of the loop?

Homework Equations


Kinetic Energy Equation 1/2m(v^2), Gravitational Potential Energy Equation Ug = 1/2(mgh)

The Attempt at a Solution


This is a yes or no question, I don't know what work I can really show.

The equation I figured out: K = Ug + K
Not sure if it is correct please help.
 

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  • #2
To answer "yes" or "no" you need to show some work, namely a calculation of the kinetic energy at point B. For that you will need the kinetic energy at point A. Do you know (or have information) what it is? Also, the equation you figured is incorrect. Mechanical energy conservation means that the kinetic + potential at point A is the same aas kinetic + potential at point B.
KA + UA = KB + UB.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Np14 said:

Homework Statement


What is the energy equation for a roller coaster already in motion from the ground with to the top of a full circular loop = point B in the image. My question is would the car still have kinetic energy at the top of the loop?

Homework Equations


Kinetic Energy Equation 1/2m(v^2), Gravitational Potential Energy Equation Ug = 1/2(mgh)

The Attempt at a Solution


This is a yes or no question, I don't know what work I can really show.

The equation I figured out: K = Ug + K
Not sure if it is correct please help.
First of all: The opening sentence of the problem statement is garbled as if you left out some words in one or more places.

What is the energy equation for a roller coaster already in motion ?⋅?⋅?⋅?⋅? from the ground with ?⋅?⋅?⋅?⋅? to the top of a full circular loop = point B in the image.​

upload_2019-2-8_7-17-38.png


Above is the screen shot of a 2× enlargement of the image you uploaded . (The combination of enlargement and of using a screen shot makes it a little fuzzy.)

In addition to that, you have have an incorrect expression for Gravitational Potential Energy. The correct expression is: Ug = mgh .

Beyond that:
I entirely agree with (Dr.) @kuruman's comments.

.
 

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