Is energy conserved in an object sliding down an inclined plane on ice?

In summary, the conversation discusses the conservation of energy in different scenarios. It is confirmed that the energy of the air is conserved when a ball falls to the ground, but a small amount of kinetic energy is transferred to the air molecules. The question of energy conservation in a wooden block sliding down an inclined plane made of ice is also brought up, with the assumption of a small coefficient of friction. It is then asked if energy is conserved in a pot of water when it is heated from room temperature to boiling.
  • #1
motleycat
40
0
1. A ball falls to the ground through the air. Is the energy of the air conserved?2. None3. When a ball falls to the ground a transformation of energy occurs. The previously stored potential energy gradually becomes kinetic energy during its fall. The energy conserved in the air is the slight rise in temperature produced by the friction between the ball and the particles in the air. So the answer to this question is yes I think but I'm not sure.
 
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  • #2
Your reasoning is correct. A (very small) part of the kinetic energy of the ball is passed on to the air molecules.
 
  • #3
Seems like a strange question, but assume you have a wooden block sliding down inclined plane made of ice.
Assume some small coefficient of friction, say, .05.
Now, is energy conserved in the ice?
Is energy conserved in a pot of water when it heated from room temperature to boiling?
 

Related to Is energy conserved in an object sliding down an inclined plane on ice?

What is conserved energy of air?

Conserved energy of air refers to the principle that the total amount of energy in a closed system, such as the Earth's atmosphere, remains constant over time. This means that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can only be transferred or converted from one form to another.

How is energy conserved in the air?

Energy in the air is conserved through various processes, such as convection, radiation, and advection. These processes involve the transfer of energy between different air masses, as well as the absorption and emission of energy by different atmospheric gases. This helps to maintain a balance of energy within the Earth's atmosphere.

Why is conserved energy of air important?

The conservation of energy in the air is important because it helps to regulate the Earth's climate and weather patterns. Without the conservation of energy, the Earth's atmosphere would experience extreme temperature fluctuations and unstable weather conditions, making it difficult for life to exist.

How is the conservation of air energy measured?

The conservation of air energy can be measured through various methods, such as using instruments to measure temperature, pressure, and humidity in the atmosphere. Scientists also use mathematical models and data from satellites to track the transfer and conversion of energy in the Earth's atmosphere.

What are the implications of not conserving energy in the air?

If energy in the air is not conserved, it can lead to significant disruptions in the Earth's climate and weather patterns. This can have serious consequences for the environment, ecosystems, and human societies. It is important for us to understand and actively work towards conserving energy in the air to maintain a stable and habitable planet.

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