Solve Hot-Wheels Car Mass, Velocity for Height

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the maximum height a Hot-Wheels car can reach when transitioning from a horizontal track to an upward slope. The car has a mass of 0.0250 kg and an initial velocity of 5.00 m/s. Key equations include the work-energy principle, where work done equals the change in potential energy (PE) and kinetic energy (KE). The solution involves equating kinetic energy to gravitational potential energy to determine the height the car can ascend.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy (KE = 0.5mv²)
  • Knowledge of gravitational potential energy (PE = mgh)
  • Familiarity with the work-energy principle
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the work-energy theorem in detail
  • Learn about energy conservation in mechanical systems
  • Explore examples of potential and kinetic energy conversions
  • Practice problems involving mass, velocity, and height calculations
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Students in physics courses, educators teaching energy concepts, and anyone interested in mechanics and energy transformations.

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Homework Statement


"A hot-wheels car of mass 0.0250 kg is traveling on a horizontal track with a velocity of 5.00m/s. If the track suddenly turns upward, how high up the track can the car travel?"


Homework Equations


work = mgh = force * distance
PEf + KEf = PEi + KEi
KE = .5mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that I need to find the distance, so I solve the work equation so it looks like (mgh)/force = distance. However, this is where I'm stuck. What would I use for the height of the ramp? Also, what would I use for the acceleration (I currently have F = ma in the equation, so the masses cancel and what's left is (gh)/a)? Would I use gravity?
 
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smithers11 said:

Homework Statement


"A hot-wheels car of mass 0.0250 kg is traveling on a horizontal track with a velocity of 5.00m/s. If the track suddenly turns upward, how high up the track can the car travel?"


Homework Equations


work = mgh = force * distance
PEf + KEf = PEi + KEi
KE = .5mv^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that I need to find the distance, so I solve the work equation so it looks like (mgh)/force = distance. However, this is where I'm stuck. What would I use for the height of the ramp? Also, what would I use for the acceleration (I currently have F = ma in the equation, so the masses cancel and what's left is (gh)/a)? Would I use gravity?

I would suggest that you focus on the conversion of Kinetic energy to gravitational potential energy.
 
Ahhh, i got it now. Thanks LowlyPion
 

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