Solving for distance with frictionless inclined plane

In summary, the physics student performs 4 joules of work on a 0.5 kg block on a frictionless 30 degree inclined plane. Using the equation W = (F * Cosθ) * D, where W is work, F is force, θ is the angle of the inclined plane, and D is the distance the block slides, the distance D is calculated to be approximately 0.94 meters. Another approach to solving this problem is to find the change in potential energy of the block and use that to determine the distance it needs to be pushed up the ramp.
  • #1
physicsballer2
12
0
A physics student shoves a 0.5 kg block from the bottom of a frictionless 30 degree plane. The student performs 4 joules of work and the block slides a distance "s" along the inclined pane before it stops. Find the value of s
W = (F * Cosθ) * D
I plugged in 4 joules for work, multiplied .5 kg by gravity(9.8) to get the force of the object which is 4.9N

Equation I got for solving for D is:

Not sure if algebra is correct

d = work / F * Cosθ

d = 4 / 4.9 * cos30

d = .94 meters (rounded)

Did I setup the equation correctly for D correctly and then solve properly?
d =

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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  • #2
There are two ways you can approach this problem.
1. Figure out the force required to push the mass up the ramp that is parallel to the surface of the ramp. Then use W = F X D to find D

2. Since there is no friction, the work will be the change in potential energy of the mass. How high will the mass have to be raised to do 4 J of work. Then figure out how far to slide the mass to raise it this ammount.
 
  • #3
ya no clue what that means but thank you for trying
 
  • #4
Approach 1. Draw a diagram with the mass on the inclined ramp. What is the component of the weight (mg) that acts down the ramp? This is the force you have to overcome.

Approach 2. The work done is equal to the change in potential energy of the mass. As you push it up the ramp, the height increases and so does the potential energy. If you know the increase in height, you can easily find how far you have to push the mass up the ramp to achieve this height.
 
  • #5
physicsballer2 said:
W = (F * Cosθ) * D
To use a formula successfully, you need to know what the terms in represent. What do you think theta represents in the above equation? Which angle is that in this problem?
 

Related to Solving for distance with frictionless inclined plane

1. How does frictionless inclined plane affect the distance travelled?

The absence of friction on an inclined plane results in a constant acceleration for an object, meaning the distance travelled will be directly proportional to the time of travel.

2. What is the formula for calculating distance on a frictionless inclined plane?

The formula is d = (1/2)at^2, where d is the distance travelled, a is the acceleration, and t is the time of travel.

3. Can the angle of the inclined plane affect the distance travelled?

Yes, the angle of the inclined plane can affect the distance travelled as it determines the value of the acceleration. The steeper the angle, the higher the acceleration and thus, the greater the distance travelled.

4. How does mass affect the distance travelled on a frictionless inclined plane?

The mass of an object does not affect the distance travelled on a frictionless inclined plane, as long as the slope remains the same. This is because the acceleration due to gravity is constant for all objects.

5. Is solving for distance on a frictionless inclined plane different from solving on a flat surface?

Yes, solving for distance on a frictionless inclined plane requires the use of trigonometric functions to determine the acceleration and distance, while on a flat surface, only the formula d = vt is needed.

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