Find speed of rollercoaster on point on loop

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the speed of a rollercoaster at a specific point on a loop, utilizing principles of conservation of energy. The scenario involves a 1000kg rollercoaster starting from a height on a frictionless track.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the conservation of energy principle to find the speed at point B, questioning whether the equation remains valid at a loop. Some participants affirm the approach, while others seek clarification on the reasoning behind it.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring the validity of the conservation of energy in the context of a loop. Some guidance has been provided regarding the conservation of mechanical energy in the absence of friction, but no consensus has been reached on the original poster's concerns.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of setting potential energy to zero at the level of point A, which may affect their calculations and assumptions about energy conservation.

aeromat
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Homework Statement


1000kg rollercoaster starts from point A on a frictionless track with the profile shown below.


c) Determine the rollercoaster's speed at point B? <-- the point on the loop itself


Will it work if I apply Conservation of Energy, being:

from A, Ek is 0 (Starting point).

0 + (m)(g)(hA) = 1/2(m)(vB)^2 + (m)(g)(hB)?

Will this equation work, even though it is at a loop? See attachment for the picture.
 

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  • PhysicsRollerCoasterProblem.png
    PhysicsRollerCoasterProblem.png
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aeromat said:
Will this equation work, even though it is at a loop?
Sure.
 
But how does that make sense though?
 
aeromat said:
But how does that make sense though?
With no friction, mechanical energy is conserved. What are you thinking that doesn't seem to make sense?
 
and you can take zero potential at level of A so that mghA = 0
 

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