Is My Calculation of Kinetic Energy Change Correct?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of kinetic energy change for a block subjected to a variable force on a frictionless surface. The problem involves determining the kinetic energy at a specific position and the maximum kinetic energy over a defined interval.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of force and its implications on kinetic energy, with some expressing skepticism about their methods and results. Questions arise regarding the validity of using certain equations under the given conditions, particularly concerning the assumption of constant acceleration.

Discussion Status

Some participants have shared their calculations and expressed uncertainty about their methods. There is an ongoing exploration of the problem, with various interpretations of the force function and its integration being discussed. Guidance has been offered regarding the assumptions behind the equations used.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of the force function and its impact on the calculations. There is mention of specific values and results obtained, but the discussion remains open-ended regarding the second part of the problem.

Jrlinton
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


ΔKE=W+FcosΘd
KE=.5mv^2
Final Vel^2=initial Velocity^2+2ax

The Attempt at a Solution


So calculate the force at x=2.6 to -5.356N, set 2.6(-5.356)=1.3Vf^2-1.3(0^2) which seemed to prove a problem as the square of the final velocity was negative, but just used that negative square in the difference of kinetic energy equation and got -5.356 J- 0= -5.356 as the change in Kinetic energy or work. I am skeptical of my methods and also a little clueless on the second part of the problem.

Many thanks
 
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Jrlinton said:

Homework Statement


View attachment 107157

Homework Equations


ΔKE=W+FcosΘd
KE=.5mv^2
Final Vel^2=initial Velocity^2+2ax

The Attempt at a Solution


So calculate the force at x=2.6 to -5.356N, set 2.6(-5.356)=1.3Vf^2-1.3(0^2) which seemed to prove a problem as the square of the final velocity was negative, but just used that negative square in the difference of kinetic energy equation and got -5.356 J- 0= -5.356 as the change in Kinetic energy or work. I am skeptical of my methods and also a little clueless on the second part of the problem.

Many thanks
Please display the problem statement in a form that can be read with reasonable effort.

Perhaps, type it out.
 
A 2.6 kg block is initially at rest on a horizontal frictionless surface when a horizontal force in the positive direction of an x axis is applied to the block. The force is given by https://edugen.wileyplus.com/edugen/shared/assignment/test/session.quest2529127entrance1_N10035.mml?size=14&ver=1475946606896&algorithm=1&rnd=1475946607102 , where x is in meters and the initial position of the block is x = 0. (a) What is the kinetic energy of the block as it passes through x = 2.6 m? (b) What is the maximum kinetic energy of the block between x = 0 and x = 2.6 m?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Jrlinton said:
A 2.6 kg block is initially at rest on a horizontal frictionless surface when a horizontal force in the positive direction of an x axis is applied to the block. The force is given by https://edugen.wileyplus.com/edugen/shared/assignment/test/session.quest2529127entrance1_N10035.mml?size=14&ver=1475946606896&algorithm=1&rnd=1475946607102 , where x is in meters and the initial position of the block is x = 0. (a) What is the kinetic energy of the block as it passes through x = 2.6 m? (b) What is the maximum kinetic energy of the block between x = 0 and x = 2.6 m?
That's better. We also have:
F(x) = (4.7 - x2)i Newtons.
or
##\ \vec F (x)=(4.7-x^2)\hat i \ ##​

What is F at x = 0? What is F at other locations?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Jrlinton said:

Homework Statement


View attachment 107157

Homework Equations


ΔKE=W+FcosΘd
KE=.5mv^2
Final Vel^2=initial Velocity^2+2ax

The Attempt at a Solution


So calculate the force at x=2.6 to -5.356N, set 2.6(-5.356)=1.3Vf^2-1.3(0^2) which seemed to prove a problem as the square of the final velocity was negative, but just used that negative square in the difference of kinetic energy equation and got -5.356 J- 0= -5.356 as the change in Kinetic energy or work. I am skeptical of my methods and also a little clueless on the second part of the problem.

Many thanks

Your formula ##V_f^2 = V_i^2 + 2ax## does not work; it assumes that ##a## is a constant, which is not true in this problem.
 
Okay so I integrated the force to 4.7x-x^3/3. I am unsure of what to do next
 
I am silly. I got 6.36 J for part 1. Now part 2 is a bit more confusing
 

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