The problem involves a lead sphere colliding with a block of ice, where the goal is to determine the mass of ice that melts as a result of the collision. The scenario includes specific parameters such as the mass and velocity of the lead sphere, as well as its initial temperature.
There is an ongoing exploration of the energy transformations involved in the collision, with some participants noting the importance of the initial temperature of the ice and questioning the completeness of the problem statement. Multiple interpretations regarding the initial conditions of the ice are being considered.
Participants highlight that the initial temperature of the ice is not specified, which affects the calculations regarding the mass of ice that melts. There is a recognition that assumptions may need to be made to proceed with the problem.
Ek=400JPWiz said:The lead sphere had kinetic energy before collision, but none afterwards. How much kinetic energy was this? What form has this energy been converted to?
Set up an equation with the total initial and final energies set equal to each other.
MaiteB said:Next should I write mcT=Ek? How can I find the difference in ice temperature?
Hmmm, I think the initial temperature of the ice does matter. The question does not specify that the ice is at 0 degrees Celsius. If it is at any other lower temperature, some of the energy from the 400J would bring it to the melting point and the remaining would convert the ice to water (the latent heat of fusion), so the initial temperature will clearly affect the mass of ice that melts. I think the question is incomplete.CWatters said:The ice doesn't change temperature. It just turns to water at the same temperature.
Is that the right equation in this situation?
The answer is 16.5 g, if it helpsCWatters said:You are correct. I didn't notice the initial temperature of the ice wasn't specified.
I agree the question is incomplete. You can't solve it unless you assume the ice is at zero.
The sphere with its energyinsightful said:So, what are all the sources of energy available to melt the ice?