Potential and Kinetic energy problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between potential energy (Ep) and kinetic energy (Ek) in a marble rolling down a ramp. The potential energy at the top, calculated using the formula Ep = mgh, should theoretically equal the kinetic energy at the bottom, Ek = 1/2mv^2, assuming no energy loss. However, factors such as friction and sound can cause energy dissipation, which complicates the direct comparison. The total mechanical energy (Em = Ep + Ek) remains constant in an ideal scenario, but real-world applications require deeper analysis of energy loss.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy and kinetic energy concepts
  • Familiarity with the equations Ep = mgh and Ek = 1/2mv^2
  • Basic knowledge of mechanical energy conservation
  • Awareness of friction and its effects on energy transfer
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods to measure final velocity of a moving object
  • Explore the impact of friction on energy loss in mechanical systems
  • Study the principles of energy conservation in physics experiments
  • Investigate real-world applications of potential and kinetic energy in engineering
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of energy conservation and the effects of friction in mechanical systems.

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Potential and Kinetic energy problem!

Homework Statement


im still stuck on the assignment: is the potential energy of a marble at the top of a ramp the same as the kinetic energy of the marble at the bottom of the ramp. I don't know the co-efficient of friction of wood but our teacher has told us keywords, they are: PREDICTIONS, measure the length the ball travels after its traveled down the ramp, FINAL VELOCITY and SEARCH DEEPER. so i have no idea what he's talking about


Homework Equations


?


The Attempt at a Solution



we have measured height of the ramp and different times for the marble, can anyone tell me how i would measure final velocity? I am really confused, and what does he mean by search deeper?
 
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Well the potential energy is calculated by how high the object is (Ep=mgh), and since kinetic is the object when it is in motion (Ek=1/2mv^2), you can safely say that if Ep=0, Ek=Ep@point 1.

The thinking behind it is calculating the total mechanical energy, which is Em=Ep+Ek, so in theory the kinetic energy should equal what the Potential was at the top of the ramp. And since you "cannot destroy energy" there will be no energy lost, but as you know friction will come into play along with other sources that may cause the loss of energy from the object (such as sound. this may be what he's saying by search deeper)

So somewhere to start, at the top of the ramp, you know that Ek=0, therefore Em=Ep
 

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