Solving for Mechanical Energy in a Stopping Bullet Problem

AI Thread Summary
To solve the stopping bullet problem, the change in mechanical energy can be calculated using the formula for kinetic energy, where K = -0.5 * M * Vo^2, resulting in a significant energy loss as the bullet stops. The bullet's initial kinetic energy is determined by its mass of 0.03 kg and initial velocity of 500 m/s, leading to a mechanical energy change of approximately -3,750 J. To find the average force exerted by the wall, the work-energy principle can be applied, where the work done by the force equals the change in kinetic energy. The average force can then be calculated by dividing the change in energy by the distance over which the bullet stops, which is 0.12 m. This problem illustrates the application of mechanical energy concepts in real-world scenarios.
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Mechanical Energy! Help!

a 30 g bullet, with a horizontal velocity of 500m/s, comes to a stop 12 cm within a solid wall.
(a)what is the change in it's mechanical energy?

(b)what is the magnitude of the average force from the wall stopping it?

* this is the first problem I've done like this so I am not sure what to do.

Vo(x) = 550m/s

M = 0.03Kg

Eq for change in mechanical Energy: E(mec) = K + U where..

K = -0.5MVo^2 ?
U = -W
 
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