Finding the decrease in potential energy of atwood machine

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SUMMARY

The decrease in potential energy in an Atwood machine, where mass m1 is less than mass m2, is calculated using the formula ΔU = (m2 - m1)gh. When mass m2 descends a distance h, the potential energy decreases due to the difference in gravitational potential energy between the two masses. The confusion arises from the interpretation of the change in potential energy; the correct approach is to recognize that the decrease is represented by the difference in gravitational potential energy, leading to the formula derived.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational potential energy (GPE)
  • Familiarity with the Atwood machine concept
  • Basic knowledge of Newtonian mechanics
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of the Atwood machine in detail
  • Learn about gravitational potential energy calculations
  • Explore the implications of mass differences in mechanical systems
  • Investigate energy conservation in dynamic systems
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to potential energy and the Atwood machine.

Davyd Sadovskyy
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Homework Statement


In the system below, m1<m2. When the object of mass m2 has descended a distance h, the potential energy of the system has decreased by:
upload_2017-11-3_21-10-29.png


Homework Equations


the answer is (m2-m1)gh

The Attempt at a Solution


I used ΔU= Uf-Ui

m1gh-m2gh=ΔU (I think that the decrease in potential energy is equal to the change in Ug because at the final configuration, m1 is at the same height that m2 is at initially, but has less weight, so the potential energy must decrease from start to finish)

gh(m1-m2)

why does the answer have the two masses in reversed order. pls help
 

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Davyd Sadovskyy said:
why does the answer have the two masses in reversed order.
because you found ΔU, the increase in GPE, whereas the question asks for the decrease.
 

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