Problem on Conservation of energy

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving two blocks connected by a string on a frictionless incline. The user attempts to apply conservation of energy principles to find the final speed of the blocks after one has slid a distance of 0.25 m. The initial calculations yield an incorrect final speed of 2.42 m/s instead of the correct answer of 1.51 m/s. Key errors identified include mixing up initial and final velocities and neglecting the changes in potential and kinetic energy for both blocks. The correct approach requires careful consideration of energy conservation for the entire system.
scytherz
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Homework Statement



Two blocks, A and B (mA=50 kg and mB=100 kg), are connected by a string as
shown. If the blocks begin at rest, what will their speeds be after A has slid
a distance d = 0.25 m? Assume the pulley and incline are frictionless.

Homework Equations



K= .5mv^2
P=mgh
ke(initial) + pe(initial) = kef = pef


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The Attempt at a Solution



.5mvi^2 + mghi = .5mvf^2 + mghf (at rest)
.5mvf^2 = -mghf
.5(50 kg) vf^2 = -100(-9.8)(.25sin37)
vf = 2.42 m/s which is wrong... where did i go wrong? the ans. is 1.51 m/s
 
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You have your vf and vi mixed up, but beyond that, do not forget that both blocks have a change in their potential and kinetic energies.
 
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