Work & GPE Homework Solution: m, R, h

  • Thread starter Thread starter shell4987
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Gpe Work
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a physics homework problem involving a block sliding along a frictionless loop-the-loop. The gravitational work done on the block is calculated as it moves from point P to points Q and the top of the loop. The user correctly solved parts (a) through (c) but struggled with parts (d) and (e), mistakenly using millijoules instead of joules for potential energy calculations. The correct approach involves using the formula U = mgy, ensuring standard units are applied for accurate results. Clarification on unit conversion and proper application of gravitational potential energy is essential for solving the problem correctly.
shell4987
Messages
43
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


In Fig. 8-33, a small block of mass m = 0.040 kg can slide along the frictionless loop-the-loop, with loop radius R = 14 cm. The block is released from rest at point P, at height h = 9R above the bottom of the loop. How much work does the gravitational force do on the block as the block travels from point P to (a) point Q and (b) the top of the loop? If the gravitational potential energy of the block-Earth system is taken to be zero at the bottom of the loop, what is that potential energy when the block is (c) at point P, (d) at point Q, and (e) at the top of the loop?
**image attached**

Homework Equations


w=mgh


The Attempt at a Solution


I've completed parts (a) through (c) and got those correct, however I cannot get a correct answer for (d) and (e), I used W=mgR and plugged in 0.040(9.8)(0.14)= 0.05488 mJ for (d) and then I used W=mg2R for (e) with plugging in 0.040(9.8)(2)(0.14)= 0.10976mJ... I need to convert these into joules and I did so and still got the wrong answer, I just want to know if I'm doing something wrong with the physics part of the problems?
 

Attachments

  • Fig08_33.gif
    Fig08_33.gif
    2.2 KB · Views: 525
Physics news on Phys.org
The only thing wrong is your thinking that the units are mJ and need to be converted to Joules. U = mgy will give you the potential energy in Joules when you use standard units of kg and m, as is the case here.
 
Thread 'Collision of a bullet on a rod-string system: query'
In this question, I have a question. I am NOT trying to solve it, but it is just a conceptual question. Consider the point on the rod, which connects the string and the rod. My question: just before and after the collision, is ANGULAR momentum CONSERVED about this point? Lets call the point which connects the string and rod as P. Why am I asking this? : it is clear from the scenario that the point of concern, which connects the string and the rod, moves in a circular path due to the string...
Back
Top