What is the rate at which mechanical energy is dissipated?

In summary: So the correct calculation is: \Delta t = 2mc\frac{\Delta T}{P} = 2(0.35 kg)(4.00 kJ/(kgK))(5.00 K)/(6.13 W) = 38.1 min = 2286 sIn summary, to produce a 5.00 degree Celsius increase in temperature, you need to rub your hands together for 38.1 minutes or 2286 seconds. The rate at which mechanical energy is dissipated is calculated to be 6.13 watts. The equations used are for internal energy and kinetic friction. The correct calculation takes into account the mass of both hands, resulting in the correct solution.
  • #1
Rubidium
17
0
1. Homework Statement
During a cold day, you can warm your hands by rubbing them together. Assume the coefficient of kinetic friction between your hands is 0.500, the normal force between your hands is 35.0 N, and that you rub them together at an average relative speed of 35.0 cm/s.
(a) What is the rate at which mechanical energy is dissipated?
(b) Assume further that the mass of each of your hands is 350 g, the specific heat of your hands is 4.00 kJ/(kg[tex]\cdot[/tex]K), and that all the dissipated mechanical energy goes into increasing the temperature of your hands.
How long must you rub your hands together to produce a 5.00[tex]\circ[/tex]C increase in their temperature?




2. Homework Equations
(a) [tex]\Delta[/tex]E[tex]_{int}[/tex]=Q[tex]_{in}[/tex]+W[tex]_{on}[/tex]
f[tex]_{k}[/tex]=[tex]\mu[/tex][tex]_{k}[/tex]F[tex]_{N}[/tex]
(b) dE[tex]_{int}[/tex]=c[tex]_{v}[/tex]mdT




3. The Attempt at a Solution
(a) f[tex]_{k}[/tex]=[tex]\mu[/tex][tex]_{k}[/tex]F[tex]_{N}[/tex]=(0.500)(35.0 N)=17.5 N [tex]\times[/tex]0.35 m/s=6.125 J/s=6.13 W
(I know that part is correct.)
(b) dE[tex]_{int}[/tex]=c[tex]_{v}[/tex]mdT=(4.00 kJ/(kg[tex]\cdot[/tex]K))(0.35 kg)(5.00[tex]\circ[/tex]C)=7.00 kJ
6.13 J/s / 0.007 J = 876 s
The correct answer is actually 38.1 min = 2286 s but I don't know what I am doing wrong. Please help.
 
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  • #2
You have two hands, so you will actually need 14kJ. And this "6.13 J/s / 0.007 J = 876 s" is nonsense, you've got different units on both sides! Find 14kJ/(6.13J/s).
 
  • #3
You can differentiate equation (b) to get:

[tex]P = mc \frac{\Delta T}{\Delta t}[/tex]

which can be rewritten as

[tex] \Delta T = mc\frac{\Delta T}{P}[/tex]

Of couse you have to hands, so the actual formula should be:

[tex] \Delta t = 2mc\frac{\Delta T}{P}[/tex]

If you plug in the numerical values, you'll find that you get the correct solution.
 
  • #4
the mass of both hands. You ahve to multiply the mass of one hand by 2. Also, 7kJ is 7000J.
 

1. What is mechanical energy?

Mechanical energy is a form of energy that an object possesses due to its motion or position. It is composed of both kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion, and potential energy, which is the energy stored in an object's position or shape.

2. How is mechanical energy dissipated?

Mechanical energy can be dissipated through various processes, such as friction, air resistance, and deformation. These processes convert mechanical energy into other forms, such as heat or sound, causing the overall mechanical energy of the system to decrease.

3. What is the rate of mechanical energy dissipation?

The rate of mechanical energy dissipation, also known as power, is the amount of energy dissipated per unit of time. It is typically measured in watts (W) and can be calculated by dividing the change in mechanical energy by the time it took for the change to occur.

4. How does the rate of mechanical energy dissipation affect the performance of a machine?

The rate of mechanical energy dissipation can impact the performance of a machine in various ways. If a machine is designed to dissipate a certain amount of energy per unit of time, then a higher rate of energy dissipation can result in faster operation. However, excessive energy dissipation can also lead to overheating and decreased efficiency.

5. Can the rate of mechanical energy dissipation be controlled?

In some cases, the rate of mechanical energy dissipation can be controlled through the use of lubricants, air resistance-reducing materials, or other techniques to minimize friction and other dissipative processes. However, in many cases, the rate of mechanical energy dissipation is inherent to the system and cannot be easily controlled.

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