How to Calculate Speed at Different Points Using Conservation of Energy?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the speed of a block at different points using the principles of conservation of energy. It is set within the context of an introductory physical science course, focusing on kinetic and potential energy concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster considers whether to focus on kinetic energy and expresses uncertainty about their approach. Some participants suggest using gravitational potential energy to understand the changes in speed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of how energy conservation applies to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the role of gravitational potential energy, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

The problem specifies neglecting frictional forces and involves an initial speed and mass of the block, but further details about the setup or specific points are not provided.

Peterson
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INTRODUCTION:
This is a problem from my Introduction to Physical Science class using "Conceptual Physics" 10th Ed.by Paul G. Hewitt

EXACT PROBLEM:
"The block in the figure at the right has a mass of 8kg and an initial speed of 7 m/s at Point A. Neglect frictional forces."

PROBLEMS FACED:
a) What will be its speed when it reaches Point B?
b) What will be its speed when it reaches Point C?

MY THOUGHTS:
Should I be looking for kinetic energy? What am I doing here?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
This is the diagram:

physics-1.jpg
 
Kinetic and Potential energy. Looks like an application of work energy/
 
I would think that speed is in this case equal to the initial plus any provided by external forces. In this case, the only other force is gravity. So as you suggest use th potential energy from gravity to add to the initial velocity. Whats that eqn?
 

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