Frictionless ramp question. Find angle.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the angle of a frictionless ramp for a 55kg block that moves down a 20-meter ramp, reaching a speed of 8m/s at the bottom. The relevant equations include the Total Energy equation, TE = PE + KE, where potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE) are considered. The user is guided to apply the principle of conservation of energy, stating that the initial energy equals the final energy, represented as Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf. This approach allows for the determination of the ramp's angle based on the given parameters.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically potential and kinetic energy.
  • Familiarity with the conservation of energy principle.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions to relate angle and ramp dimensions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conservation of energy in physics, focusing on potential and kinetic energy calculations.
  • Learn how to derive angles from trigonometric relationships in right triangles.
  • Explore examples of frictionless motion and energy transformations in physics.
  • Practice solving similar problems involving inclined planes and energy conservation.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those tackling problems involving energy conservation and inclined planes, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods in introductory physics courses.

oldschooleuro
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Homework Statement


A 55kg block is released on a ramp which is frictionless. The ramp is 20 meters long and at the bottom it is moving 8m/s. What is the angle of the ramp?


Homework Equations


I am looking for the angle but cannot for the life of me figure it out.


The Attempt at a Solution



I have set out my variables as m=55kg, d=20m and v=8m/s

I drew out a triangle and have no idea how to do it.
 
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oldschooleuro said:

Homework Statement


A 55kg block is released on a ramp which is frictionless. The ramp is 20 meters long and at the bottom it is moving 8m/s. What is the angle of the ramp?


Homework Equations


I am looking for the angle but cannot for the life of me figure it out.


The Attempt at a Solution



I have set out my variables as m=55kg, d=20m and v=8m/s

I drew out a triangle and have no idea how to do it.

Welcome to the PF. I moved your question to Intro Physics.

Are you familiar with using the Total Energy to solve this type of question? Does this equation look familiar?

TE = PE + KE
 
Only force on the mass is gravity, which is conservative. so Einitial = Efinal

Ui + Ki = Uf + Kf
 

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