Why Is the Correct Answer mgh/4 in This Energy Problem?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a potential energy problem where the original poster is struggling to understand why their calculated answer differs from the expected result of mgh/4. The subject area is energy conservation and potential energy calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the initial and final energy states but arrives at a different conclusion than expected. They question their understanding of the potential energy formula and the factors affecting it.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance regarding the importance of considering the change in elevation of the center of mass when analyzing potential energy changes. The original poster acknowledges this clarification and expresses gratitude for the insights shared.

Contextual Notes

The original poster references an attachment that presumably contains additional details about the problem setup, which may not be fully articulated in the discussion. There is an indication of a misunderstanding related to the application of potential energy concepts.

nish123
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Homework Statement


Hello All !

I have this question which I can't seem to get the correct ans to.. maybe I am missing something.. (Please refer to attachment)


Homework Equations



POtential energy = mass x g x h

The Attempt at a Solution



ok initial amt of energy = m x g x h

final energy state =( mgh/4 + mgh/4 )= mgh/ 2

so mgh - mgh/2 = mgh/2 (my ans)

apparently correct ans is mgh/4

help , pls ? thanks !
 

Attachments

Physics news on Phys.org
Hi nish123, Welcome to Physics Forums.

When dealing with changes in potential energy, you want to consider the change in elevation of the center of mass.
 
ahh, got it!... thanks a ton
gneill and
ResscuedByMary

point i was missing was "When dealing with changes in potential energy, you want to consider the change in elevation of the center of mass."Thanks again !
 
thanks ResscuedByMary i now understand your explanation too...

"When dealing with changes in potential energy, you want to consider the change in elevation of the center of mass." was told by
gneill as above... thanks both !
 

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