The title could be: Calculating Energy Loss and Conservation in Falling Objects

In summary, the conversation is about a student seeking help with two physics problems involving energy and potential energy. The first problem involves calculating the energy lost to entropy when a 2kg pine cone drops from a 41m high tree at a velocity of 10m/s. The second problem involves finding the height and kinetic energy of a 1800kg roller coaster starting at the top of a 190m hill and reaching a velocity of 24m/s at a height of 10m above the ground. The student is struggling with using equations and needs guidance on finding the energy at different stages of each problem.
  • #1
sunaluna
1
0

Homework Statement


So, I need a little help with a few problems
So, say a 2kg pine cone drops from a tree 41 meters high. If it hits the ground at 10m/s then how much was lost to entropy?
Or
A 1800kg roller coaster begins at the top of 190m hill, at what height will the velocity be 24m/s and what will be its kinetic energy when it reaches a height of 10m above the ground.?
Thanks for any or all help.

Homework Equations


Energy of work = Force times distance
Gravitational potential = mgy
Kinetic Energy = .5 time mass time velocity squared

The Attempt at a Solution


For the 2nd one, I used mgy= .5 time mass time velocity squared but submitted 24 for the velocity to find y but I don't think it's right.
For the 1st, I used mgy+.5 time mass time velocity squared to find the energy but don't know where to go from there.
 
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  • #2
Energy initial = energy final

potential energy of pine cone up in tree =

kinetic energy of pine cone before it hits + energy "lost" on the way down

You can figure out two of those to find the third.

For the second part,

Energy initial = energy at some intermediate step

potential energy up high =

potential energy up not so high + kinetic energy at that not so high place
 

1. What is the concept of "energy needed/energy lost"?

The concept of "energy needed/energy lost" refers to the amount of energy required to perform a specific task or activity compared to the amount of energy that is lost or wasted in the process. This concept is often used in the study of thermodynamics and energy efficiency.

2. How is the energy needed/energy lost calculated?

The energy needed/energy lost can be calculated by using the formula: Efficiency = Energy Output / Energy Input. This calculation takes into account the amount of energy that is used to perform the task and the amount of energy that is wasted or lost in the process.

3. What factors affect the energy needed/energy lost?

There are several factors that can affect the energy needed/energy lost, including the type of energy being used, the efficiency of the equipment or system, and external factors such as temperature and pressure. Other factors may include the design and maintenance of the equipment, as well as human error.

4. How can we reduce the energy needed/energy lost?

There are several ways to reduce the energy needed/energy lost, such as using more efficient equipment or systems, incorporating renewable energy sources, and implementing energy-saving practices. Regular maintenance and proper use of equipment can also help to reduce energy loss.

5. What are the real-world applications of understanding energy needed/energy lost?

Understanding the concept of energy needed/energy lost has many real-world applications. It can help in designing more efficient systems and equipment, improving energy efficiency in buildings and transportation, and reducing overall energy consumption. This knowledge is also crucial in developing sustainable energy solutions and addressing global energy challenges.

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