Work/Energy Conservation Problem w/ Initial Velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a work/energy conservation problem involving a 0.50 kg mass subjected to a 10.0 N horizontal force and a coefficient of friction of 0.40. The initial speed of the mass is 2.00 m/s, and the objective is to determine its speed after traveling 15.0 m. The correct application of the general energy conservation formula led to a calculated speed of 22.1 m/s, which was identified as incorrect, with the expected answer being 2.21 m/s. The discrepancy was attributed to a potential error in the solution key rather than in the calculations performed by the participants.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the General Energy Conservation Formula
  • Knowledge of Kinetic Energy (Ek) and Potential Energy (Ep)
  • Familiarity with the concept of friction and its coefficient
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the General Energy Conservation Formula in detail
  • Study the effects of friction on motion and energy
  • Practice problems involving Kinetic Energy and work done by forces
  • Explore common mistakes in energy conservation problems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and energy conservation principles, as well as educators looking for examples of common errors in problem-solving.

Bread Boy
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Homework Statement


An applied force of 10.0N acts horizontally on a 0.50kg mass on a floor with the coefficient of friction being 0.40. If the object had an initial speed of 2.00 m/s, determine its speed at 15.0m.


Homework Equations


General Energy Conservation Formula
Ek(i) + Ep (i) + Einput(i) = Ek(f) + Ep(f) + Eoutput(f)


The Attempt at a Solution


1/2 * 0.5 * 2^2 + (10 * 15) = 1/2 * 0.5 * v^2 + ((0.4)(0.5)(9.8) * 15)
(hope I wrote it down correctly haha)
v = 22.1 m/s

Now I know the answer is supposed to be 2.21 m/s, but I have no idea how I ended up with what seems to be a decimal place in the wrong position. What gives?

Thanks in advance for the help!
 
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Your work--and your answer--looks fine to me.
 
So I was correct? The solution key must have been wrong then. Thanks a bunch!
 

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