Work done by gravity on a car rolling down a hill

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the work done by gravity on a car rolling down a hill, focusing on the application of relevant physics formulas and concepts related to energy and work.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the formula E = F x cos(θ) and question the values chosen for F, x, and θ. There is also a suggestion to consider the definition of θ in the context of the formula. Additionally, one participant proposes that using W = ΔE_P may be more appropriate for this scenario.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different approaches and questioning the assumptions behind the chosen formulas. Some guidance has been offered regarding the appropriateness of specific equations, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework problem, which may limit the information available for discussion. There is a reference to a diagram that may not be visible to all participants, potentially affecting the clarity of the problem setup.

physicsmaster123
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Thread moved from the technical forums to the schoolwork forums
I tried E =Fxcos0 but only ended up with 243kJ
1694284850662.png
 
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What values of ##F##, ##x##, and ##\theta## did you use and why?
 
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Hint: What is the textbook definition of ##\theta## in the formula you stated?
 
Last edited:
physicsmaster123 said:
I tried E =Fxcos0 but only ended up with 243kJ
What distance in the diagram is ##50\cos(8°)##m?
 
Specific to this exercise, ##W=\Delta E_P## is a better fit than ##W=Fd\cos \theta##
 
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