Rotational and potential energy problem - Mastering physics

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving a uniform ball rolling down a curved track and calculating the horizontal distance (x) it travels after leaving the track. The key equations used include the conservation of energy, where potential energy (mgh) is converted into kinetic energy and rotational energy, and the equations of motion for free fall. The user derived the velocity at the bottom of the ramp as v = sqrt(10/6 * gh) and calculated the time of fall using y = 1/2gt^2, ultimately leading to the expression for x. However, the solution was flagged for an incorrect numerical multiplier, indicating a need for further refinement in the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of conservation of energy principles in physics
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations for projectile motion
  • Knowledge of moment of inertia, specifically for a sphere (I = 2/5 * m * r^2)
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the conservation of energy equation in rotational dynamics
  • Study the relationship between linear velocity and angular velocity (v = r * omega)
  • Explore the concept of numerical multipliers in physics equations and their significance
  • Practice similar problems involving rolling motion and free fall to reinforce understanding
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to energy conservation and motion dynamics.

Kamkazemoose
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Homework Statement



"In a lab experiment you let a uniform ball roll down a curved track. The ball starts from rest and rolls without slipping. While on the track, the ball descends a vertical distance h. The lower end of the track is horizontal and extends over the edge of the lab table; the ball leaves the track traveling horizontally. While free falling after leaving the track, the ball moves a horizontal distance x and a vertical distance y."

"Calculate x in terms of h and y, ignoring the work done by friction."

h - height of ramp ball rolls down
y- height of track above ground
x - horizontal distance ball travels while falling
g - acceleration due to gravity
m - mass of ball
r - radius of ball

Homework Equations



m*g*h = 1/2*m*v^2+1/2*I*(omega)^2 (potential energy equal to kinetic energy and rotational energy)
I= 2/5*m*r^2 (moment of inertia for a sphere)
(omega)=v/r
x = x_0+v_0*t+1/2*a*t^2


The Attempt at a Solution



I solved for the velocity of the ball at the bottom of the ramp, mass and radius cancels out and got gh=6/10*v^2, so v=sqrt(10/6*gh). Then I tried to find the time it would take for the ball to fall y and got y=1/2gt^2 as there was no initial vertical velocity. So, i got t=sqrt((2y)/g). I then multiplied the velocity by the time because there should be no horizontal acceleration, and I got x = sqrt(6/10*gh)*sqrt((2y)/g) and mastering physics said "Your answer either contains an incorrect numerical multiplier or is missing one." so, I'm not sure what I should do, where I went wrong or whatever, so if anyone has any help, it would be appreciated, thanks.
 
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Kamkazemoose said:

Homework Statement



"In a lab experiment you let a uniform ball roll down a curved track. The ball starts from rest and rolls without slipping. While on the track, the ball descends a vertical distance h. The lower end of the track is horizontal and extends over the edge of the lab table; the ball leaves the track traveling horizontally. While free falling after leaving the track, the ball moves a horizontal distance x and a vertical distance y."

"Calculate x in terms of h and y, ignoring the work done by friction."

h - height of ramp ball rolls down
y- height of track above ground
x - horizontal distance ball travels while falling
g - acceleration due to gravity
m - mass of ball
r - radius of ball

Homework Equations



m*g*h = 1/2*m*v^2+1/2*I*(omega)^2 (potential energy equal to kinetic energy and rotational energy)
I= 2/5*m*r^2 (moment of inertia for a sphere)
(omega)=v/r
x = x_0+v_0*t+1/2*a*t^2


The Attempt at a Solution



I solved for the velocity of the ball at the bottom of the ramp, mass and radius cancels out and got gh=6/10*v^2, so v=sqrt(10/6*gh). Then I tried to find the time it would take for the ball to fall y and got y=1/2gt^2 as there was no initial vertical velocity. So, i got t=sqrt((2y)/g). I then multiplied the velocity by the time because there should be no horizontal acceleration, and I got x = sqrt(6/10*gh)*sqrt((2y)/g) and mastering physics said "Your answer either contains an incorrect numerical multiplier or is missing one." so, I'm not sure what I should do, where I went wrong or whatever, so if anyone has any help, it would be appreciated, thanks.

2E = 2m\vec{g}\vec{h} = m\vec{v}^2 + I\vec{\omega}^2 \left(=\frac{I\vec{v}^2}{\vec{r}^2}\right) = m\vec{v}^2 + I\vec{\omega}^2 + 2mgy. Check this out. :)
 

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