Conservation of Mechanical Energy in truck

In summary, a 5000 kg runaway truck with failed brakes and a speed of 150 km/h is heading towards a 15° frictionless emergency escape ramp. The question is asking for the minimum length of the ramp needed for the truck to stop momentarily. The potential energy at the top of the ramp would be 49000h, while the kinetic energy at the bottom would be 4326400. By applying the title of the post, the solution can be found by equating the two energies and solving for h.
  • #1
kappcity06
90
0
a runaway truck with failed brakes is moving downgrade at 150km/h (41.6 m/s) just before the driver steers the truck travel up a frictionless emergency escape ramp with an inclination of 15°. The truck's mass is 5000 kg.

What minimum length L must the ramp have if the truck is to stop (momentarily) along it? (Assume the truck is a particle).

i have its potenail enegry when it is at the top of the raqmp to be mgh or 49000sin15? I'm do not know if this is right. thekentic energy would be 1/2mv^2 or 4326400 at the bottom of the ramp. I am not sure where to go now. please help
 
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  • #2
The potential energy at the top would be just mgh, or 49000h. You know the kinetic energy at the bottom. Now apply the title of your post to this data to find h. :smile:
 
  • #3
ok i will try it
 
  • #4
ok thanks i got it
 

Related to Conservation of Mechanical Energy in truck

What is conservation of mechanical energy in a truck?

The conservation of mechanical energy in a truck refers to the principle that the total amount of mechanical energy in a system remains constant, even as it undergoes changes in form or position. This means that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transferred or converted from one form to another.

How does conservation of mechanical energy apply to trucks?

In the context of trucks, conservation of mechanical energy means that the total energy of the truck, including its kinetic energy (energy of motion) and potential energy (energy due to its position), remains the same as it moves or comes to a stop. This is important in understanding the efficiency and performance of trucks, as well as their impact on the environment.

What factors affect the conservation of mechanical energy in a truck?

The conservation of mechanical energy in a truck can be affected by several factors, including the truck's weight, speed, and the type of terrain it is traveling on. Other factors such as air resistance and friction can also play a role in the energy conservation of a truck.

How does the conservation of mechanical energy impact fuel efficiency in trucks?

The conservation of mechanical energy plays a significant role in the fuel efficiency of trucks. By maintaining a constant speed and avoiding sudden accelerations or decelerations, trucks can conserve their mechanical energy and use less fuel. Additionally, reducing the weight of the truck and minimizing resistance can also improve fuel efficiency.

What are some practical applications of conservation of mechanical energy in truck design?

Truck manufacturers and engineers often use the principle of conservation of mechanical energy in designing more efficient and sustainable trucks. This can include using lightweight materials, aerodynamic designs, and regenerative braking systems that capture and store energy during braking. These efforts help to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, making trucks more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

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