Kinetic and Potential Energy with acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a 4-kg mass moving from point 1 to point 2 on a rough horizontal surface, where the coefficient of kinetic friction (μk) is 0.3. The mass has an initial speed of 20 m/s at point 1, and the kinetic energy at this point is established at 800J. To determine the acceleration, participants emphasize the necessity of calculating the frictional force acting on the mass, which directly influences its deceleration as it travels the 4-meter distance to point 2.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (F=ma)
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy calculations
  • Familiarity with friction coefficients and their impact on motion
  • Basic principles of motion on inclined planes
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the frictional force using the formula F_friction = μk * m * g
  • Determine the deceleration caused by friction and its effect on velocity
  • Learn how to apply kinematic equations to find acceleration in frictional scenarios
  • Explore energy conservation principles in systems involving friction
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators and tutors looking to enhance their understanding of kinetic and potential energy interactions with friction.

salthegemini
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Homework Statement


A 4-kg mass is launched with zero initial velocity on a frictionless circular track. The speed of the mass at point 1 is 20 m/s (base of the curve). The mass then travels along a rough horizontal surface between points 1 and 2 (L-4m, μk=0.3). It then travels up a frictionless slope.

Part a had me calculate the height is was dropped from using the velocity at point 1 and it came out to a height of 20.41m and the Kinetic Energy at the base was 800J

Part b) Find the acceleration of the system as it travels from point 1 to 2.


Homework Equations


F=ma
A=(Vinitial-Vfinal)/t

The Attempt at a Solution


I realize that the friction will slow down the velocity over the length but I don't know how to tie the velocity and acceleration together while including friction.
 
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welcome to pf!

hi salthegemini! welcome to pf! :smile:
salthegemini said:
I realize that the friction will slow down the velocity over the length but I don't know how to tie the velocity and acceleration together while including friction.

nothing accelerates unless there's a force

to find the acceleration, first find the force :wink:
 

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