How Is Mechanical Energy Calculated in Thrown Objects?

In summary, the conversation discusses the kinetic and potential energy of a 0.50 kg rubber ball thrown into the air, as well as the work done by someone throwing the ball and the speed of the ball when it left the ground. The ball's kinetic energy is 56 J, its gravitational potential energy is 98 J, and the work done by the person throwing the ball is 150 J. The speed of the ball when it left the ground is 15 m/s. The law of conservation of mechanical energy applies in this scenario.
  • #1
new^2^physics
13
0
1. Homework Statement

A 0.50 kg rubber ball is thrown into the air. At a height of 20 m above the ground, it is traveling at 15 m/s.
a. what is the balls kinetic energy
b. What is its gravitational potential energy relative to the ground?
c. how much work was done by someone at ground level throwing the ball into the air?
d. What was the speed of the ball when it left the ground?3. The Attempt at a Solution

a. Ek = 1/2 mv2
Ek = 1/2 (0.50kg)(15m/s)
Ek = 1/2 (0.50 kg)(225 m2/s2)
Ek = 1/2 (112.5 J)
Ek = 56 J

b. Eg = mgh
Eg = (0.50kg)(9.80 N/kg)(20m)
Eg = 98 J

c. W = fd
ANSWER = 150
HELP ME PLEASE

d. PLEASE HELP!
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
For part C, the law of conservation of mechanical energy would say that KE+PE=constant. So the person would need to supply that much energy.
 

Related to How Is Mechanical Energy Calculated in Thrown Objects?

1. What is mechanical energy?

Mechanical energy is the energy possessed by an object due to its motion or position. It is the sum of an object's kinetic energy (energy of motion) and potential energy (energy stored in its position or shape).

2. How is mechanical energy calculated?

Mechanical energy can be calculated by adding an object's kinetic energy and potential energy. Kinetic energy is calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 * m * v^2, where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity. Potential energy is calculated using the formula PE = m * g * h, where m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the object.

3. What are some examples of mechanical energy?

Some examples of mechanical energy include a moving car, a swinging pendulum, a rolling ball, a compressed spring, and a person running. All of these objects possess both kinetic and potential energy.

4. Can mechanical energy be converted into other forms of energy?

Yes, mechanical energy can be converted into other forms of energy. For example, when a car brakes, its mechanical energy is converted into heat energy due to friction. Similarly, a wind turbine converts the mechanical energy of wind into electrical energy.

5. How does mechanical energy relate to work?

Mechanical energy is closely related to work, as work is defined as the transfer of energy from one form to another. When a force is applied to an object and causes it to move, work is done and the object gains mechanical energy.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
350
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top