What is the gravitational potential energy of the box relative to the floor?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the gravitational potential energy of an 18.5kg box being slid up a ramp that is 5.6m long and inclined at an angle of 33 degrees to the floor. Participants are exploring the relevant concepts and equations related to gravitational potential energy.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the relevance of the kinetic energy equation provided by the original poster and emphasize the need to focus on gravitational potential energy. There is a discussion about determining the height (h) needed for the calculation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants guiding the original poster to consider the correct formula for gravitational potential energy and the importance of calculating the height from the ramp. Some guidance has been provided regarding the variables involved.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a previous answer given by the teacher, but the original poster expresses uncertainty about how to demonstrate their work. The relevance of the kinetic energy equation is also under scrutiny.

nicolehoskins
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Homework Statement


An 18.5kg box is slid up a 5.6m long ramp that makes an angle of 33 degrees with the floor. What is the gravitational potential energy of the box relative to the floor?

Homework Equations


Ek = 1/2mv2

The Attempt at a Solution


My teacher gave me an answer of 550J, but I'm not sure how to show my work
 
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Welcome to PF!

What determines the amount of gravitational potential energy of an object? You wrote an equation for kinetic energy, but that is not relevant here.
 
nicolehoskins said:

Homework Statement


An 18.5kg box is slid up a 5.6m long ramp that makes an angle of 33 degrees with the floor. What is the gravitational potential energy of the box relative to the floor?

Homework Equations


Ek = 1/2mv2

The Attempt at a Solution


My teacher gave me an answer of 550J, but I'm not sure how to show my work
Well, you can type it into the reply box. If you need to use special math symbols or Greek letters, you can hit the big ∑ button on the reply box toolbar or use Latex.
 
TSny said:
Welcome to PF!

What determines the amount of gravitational potential energy of an object? You wrote an equation for kinetic energy, but that is not relevant here.

Whoops, I meant Eg = mgh
 
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Ok so m and g are easy. All you need to do is calculate h.
 

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