Why Is My Calculation of Speed on an Inclined Plane Incorrect?

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The discussion revolves around calculating the speed of a 2.0-kg mass sliding down a 20-degree inclined plane with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.20. The initial calculations were incorrect due to not considering the parallel force and friction properly. The correct approach involves using the forces acting on the mass, specifically the gravitational force component along the incline and the frictional force. After applying the work-energy theorem and adjusting the calculations, the correct speed after sliding 4.0 m was determined to be 3.5 m/s. The user successfully resolved the issue with guidance from others in the forum.
kwise
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This problem is giving me issues. I don't think I'm using the right equations...

Problem:
A 2.0-kg mass is released from rest at the top of a plane inclined at 20 degrees above horizontal. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the mass and the plane is 0.20. What will be the speed of the mass after sliding 4.0 m along the plane.

A) 2.2 m/s
B) 3.0 m/s
C) 3.5 m/s
D) 5.2 m/s

Work:
Here is what I tried.
Mass= 2.0kg
Coefficient of Kenetic Friction= 0.20
Displacement= 4m
Weight= 9.8*2=19.6N

W=F*d*cos 0

W=19.6*4*cos(20)
W=73.67

W sub NET= change in KE
73.67=1/2*2*v(squared)
v=8.58m/s

That is not one of my choices :rolleyes:

Any help would be fantastic. Thanks in advance.
Kirk
 
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you need to find the parallel force to the plane, not just the weight,
Parallel force - friction force or

mgsin(teta) - u(normal force)
mg*sin(theta) - umg*cos(theta)

well, I am new here so i don't know how to neter in symbols like theta, coeficient of friction, ...

u= coeff of friction
 
i hope that's right, becuase i only started work-energy theorum today
 
looks like a great start for me. I'm going to give it a shot.

Thanks,
Kirk
 
Thanks so much! That got me on the right track. I was able to get the right answer, which was C if you wanted to know.

Kirk:smile:
 
Another method that uses "work = change in KE"... if you draw your freebody diagram, 3 forces act on the block, Fgravity, Fnormal, and Ffriction. The definition of Work is W=Fdcos(theta). Quantify the work done by each force, careful when determining theta for each. Fgx4metersxcos(70)... etc. Your total work done = change in KE... you will get an answer matching your one of the choices.
 
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