Mechanics: Work and Energy
Work and Energy: Audio Guided Solution
Extra Problem 5:
A bowling ball is attached by a 2.59-meter cable to the ceiling. It has 10.9 Joules of potential energy when held at a height of 4 feet above the ground. It is released from rest allowed to swing as a pendulum. Determine its kinetic energy (in Joules) when it is at a height of 1 foot above the ground.
Audio Guided Solution
Use the equation below to solve this problem. Cancel terms, substitute and solve.
KEi + PEi + Wnc = KEf + PEf
Read About It!
Get more information on the topic of Work and Energy at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.
Return to Original Problem Set
Return to Index of Extra Problems
Return to Overview
Habits of an Effective Problem Solver
An effective problem solver by habit approaches a physics problem in a manner that reflects a collection of disciplined habits. An effective problem-solver...
- ...reads the problem carefully and develops a mental picture of the physical situation. If needed, they sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help visualize it.
- ...identifies the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner, often times recording them on the diagram iteself. They equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity (e.g., vo = 0 m/s; a = 4.2 m/s/s; vf = 22.9 m/s; d = ???).
- ...plots a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity; the strategy will typically center around the use of physics equations be heavily dependent upon an understaning of physics principles.
- ...identifies the appropriate formula(s) to use, often times writing them down. Where needed, they perform the needed conversion of quantities into the proper unit.
- ...performs substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.