Help with a Potential Energy Problem

Click For Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a block sliding through a loop-the-loop. Key points include calculating the work done by the block's weight as it moves from point P to point Q and from point P to the top of the loop. Additionally, the potential energy of the block is examined at points P, Q, and the top of the loop, with gravitational potential energy set to zero at the bottom. The calculations require using the mass of the block, the height above the loop, and the acceleration due to gravity. Understanding these concepts is essential for solving the energy problem presented.
champ0342
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
In the figure below, a small block of mass m = 1.0 kg can slide along the frictionless loop-the-loop. The block is released from rest at point P, at height h = 8R above the bottom of the loop. (For all parts, answer using g for the acceleration due to gravity, and R and m as appropriate.)
"[URL
http://www.webassign.net/hrw/08_33.gif

(a) How much work does the weight of the block do on the block as the block travels from point P to point Q?

(b) How much work does the weight of the block do on the block as the block travels from point P to the top of the loop?

(c) What is the potential energy when the block is at point P? (Assume that the gravitational potential energy of the block Earth system is taken to be zero at the bottom of the loop.)

(d) What is the potential energy when the block is at point Q?

(e) What is the potential energy when the block is at the top of the loop?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Did you read https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=94379" ??
 
Last edited by a moderator:
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

Similar threads

Replies
29
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
892
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K