Speed or turning point using energy

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving energy conservation, specifically kinetic and potential energy, and the motion of a particle. Participants are exploring how to determine various aspects of the particle's motion, including speed and turning points, using energy principles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply the conservation of energy principle to find relationships between kinetic energy and potential energy. There are discussions about the validity of using gravitational potential energy and the implications of energy changes as the particle moves. Questions are raised about how to derive force from energy differences and how to interpret the potential energy graph.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on interpreting energy changes and potential energy calculations. There is an ongoing exploration of different interpretations of the problem, particularly regarding the assumptions about potential energy and the conditions at the turning point. Participants are actively questioning each other's reasoning and calculations, indicating a productive dialogue.

Contextual Notes

There are constraints regarding the assumptions made about potential energy, with some participants noting that the problem does not specify gravitational potential energy. Additionally, there is a focus on the need for clarity in the energy scale and the correct interpretation of the energy graph.

  • #31
jbriggs444 said:
We go for correct answers here. Not answers that we think the answer key thinks are correct.
Have you calculated the result? Because I get an answer that is compatible with the answer key.
 
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  • #32
DrClaude said:
Have you calculated the result? Because I get an answer that is compatible with the answer key.
I rechecked and you are correct.

Edit: Thinking back, I'd double-dipped on the 20J of initial potential energy, both adding it to the initial total energy and subtracting it from the potential barrier left to overcome, leaving just enough energy to make it past.
 
Last edited:

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