The discussion centers on the potential energy (PE) of a block moving up and down an incline, described by the equation PE = mgh. The potential energy is zero at the base of the incline, reaches a maximum at the top, and decreases back to zero as the block descends. Participants concluded that the graph representing this relationship is parabolic, specifically confirming that option D is correct, as it starts and ends at zero, reflecting the behavior of potential energy over time.
PREREQUISITESStudents studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the graphical representation of potential energy in motion.
To answer that question, you need to find U(t). Can you do that? Hint: h(t) will do because U(t) = mgh(t).YMMMA said:
Ahh, right the height is proportional to the time squared. So, it’s a parabola.kuruman said:
Not a good enough explanation. The zero value for potential energy is (as you know) arbitrary. What if the other graph was labeled so that the potential energy is zero at its end points?YMMMA said:
No, it starts with zero, reaches maximum height/ potential energy, and then decrease to zero.kuruman said:
