Object on a String: Solving for Velocity

  • Thread starter Thread starter bulldog23
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    String
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a physics problem involving a ball swinging on a string of length L = 109.0 cm from a fixed peg P located 74.1 cm away. Participants emphasize the use of energy conservation principles, specifically the equations KE + PE = constant, KE = (1/2)mv², and PE = mgh. The key takeaway is that the velocity at the lowest point can be derived from the total energy, which remains constant throughout the swing, leading to the conclusion that v = √(2gL) when calculated correctly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly energy conservation
  • Familiarity with kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE) equations
  • Ability to interpret free body diagrams
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g = 9.81 m/s²)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of energy conservation in mechanical systems
  • Learn how to derive velocity from energy equations in pendulum motion
  • Explore the relationship between height and potential energy in gravitational fields
  • Practice solving similar physics problems involving pendulums and energy conservation
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those tackling mechanics and energy conservation, as well as educators seeking to clarify these concepts for beginners.

  • #31
So is PE at the top zero also?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
Noooo. PE = m g h. Get some rest and rethink this, ok? It's really not that hard. It's a lot easier than force diagrams.
 
  • #33
alright, thanks for the help
 
  • #34
No problem. Just remember total energy is constant and = mgh+(1/2)*mv^2. If you know h at any point than you can compute v. Night, night.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
15K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
11K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
9K