: Finding Mechanical Energy, Velocity, and Height

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding mechanical energy, velocity, and height in a physics context, specifically related to energy conservation principles. The original poster expresses confusion regarding the calculation of these values despite understanding potential and kinetic energy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between mechanical energy, potential energy, and kinetic energy, with some suggesting methods to find velocity through energy conservation principles. Questions arise about the calculations needed for mechanical energy and height.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide guidance on how to approach the problem, indicating that mechanical energy is the sum of potential and kinetic energy. There are multiple interpretations of how to calculate the values at different points, and the discussion appears to be progressing with shared insights.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of specific equations related to potential and kinetic energy, and the discussion includes examples with numerical values. However, the original poster's request for clarity on mechanical energy, velocity, and height remains a focal point of inquiry.

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URGENT: Finding Mechanical Energy, Velocity, and Height

Homework Statement


http://www.mrfizix.com/home/energy_files/image051.gif

Homework Equations


E0=EF
PE=mgh
KE=(1/2)mv2

The Attempt at a Solution


I understand how to get the potential and kinetic energy values but I'm confused as to how to get the mechanical energy, velocity, and height values. Any help would be appreciated!
 
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Well Mechanical Energy is the sum of the pot. energy and kinetic energy at a certain point.
And to find the velocity you do the change in kinetic energy between two points equals the work, or you do it a more simpler way which is the Mechanical energy at one point equals the mechanical energy at another point.
 


For example at point 1 PE=0 and KE=.5*60*8^2=1920 J. And the ME=PE+KE=1920J
 


mtayab1994 said:
For example at point 1 PE=0 and KE=.5*60*8^2=1920 J. And the ME=PE+KE=1920J
That makes a lot of sense! Thanks so much! :)
 


Ok so just do the same for point 2. You will be able to calculate the potential energy first. Then use PE(1)+KE(1)=PE(2)+KE(2) to find the KE and then use ΔKE=W from 1 to 2 and so on until you finish. It's pretty easy.
 

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