Laws of conservation of mass (roller coaster) work and mechanical energy

In summary, a 4.0 x 10^4kg roller coaster starting from rest at point A has potential energy of Eg=mgh at points A, B, C, and D, where the heights are 54m, 15m, 47m, and 35m respectively. To calculate its kinetic energy, the law of conservation of energy can be used, where the change in kinetic energy plus the change in potential energy is equal to 0. This can also be written as Ek=Eg.
  • #1
anna sung
46
0

Homework Statement


A 4.0 x 10^4kg roller coaster starts from rest at point A. Neglecting Friction, calculate its potential eneregy relative to the ground, its kinetic energy, and it's speed at points, B, C, and D.
at point A : 54m
B: 15m
c:47m
d:35m

Homework Equations



i got potential eneregy by using Eg=mgh
but how do you get the kinetic eneregy when you don't have velocity.
also when writing down equations what do you write after
L.C.E. is it due to L.C.E. Ek=Eg?
 
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  • #2
anna sung said:

Homework Statement


A 4.0 x 10^4kg roller coaster starts from rest at point A. Neglecting Friction, calculate its potential eneregy relative to the ground, its kinetic energy, and it's speed at points, B, C, and D.
at point A : 54m
B: 15m
c:47m
d:35m


Homework Equations



i got potential eneregy by using Eg=mgh
but how do you get the kinetic eneregy when you don't have velocity.
also when writing down equations what do you write after
L.C.E. is it due to L.C.E. Ek=Eg?
The law of conservation of energy when only conservative forces like gravity are doing work states that the change in Ek plus the change in Eg = 0, that is [tex]\Delta E_k + \Delta E_g = 0 [/tex], or putting it in another form,
[tex] E_k_{initial} + E_g_{initial} = E_k_{final} + E_g_{final} [/tex]. Using either one of those equations should be very helpful in calculating the coaster's kinetic energy at a given point.
 
  • #3

Related to Laws of conservation of mass (roller coaster) work and mechanical energy

1. What is the law of conservation of mass?

The law of conservation of mass states that matter cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. This means that the total mass of a closed system remains constant over time, regardless of any physical or chemical changes that may occur.

2. How does the law of conservation of mass apply to roller coaster design?

In the context of roller coasters, the law of conservation of mass is important because it dictates that the total mass of the roller coaster and its riders must remain constant throughout the ride. This means that the coaster's initial potential energy is balanced by its final kinetic energy, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride for all passengers.

3. What is mechanical energy in the context of a roller coaster?

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in a system. In a roller coaster, potential energy is stored in the coaster's initial height and is converted to kinetic energy as the coaster travels down the track. This energy is then converted back to potential energy as the coaster is pulled up the next hill.

4. How does the law of conservation of energy relate to the work done on a roller coaster?

The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. In the case of a roller coaster, the work done by the coaster's initial potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the coaster moves along the track. The total amount of work done by the coaster remains constant throughout the ride, in accordance with the law of conservation of energy.

5. Are there any other laws or principles that apply to roller coaster design?

In addition to the laws of conservation of mass and energy, other principles such as Newton's laws of motion and the law of inertia also play a role in the design and operation of roller coasters. These laws and principles help ensure the safety and functionality of the ride for all passengers.

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