AP Physics-Potential Energy and Conservation.

In summary, potential energy is the stored energy an object has due to its position or composition, and it can be converted into other forms of energy. It is related to the principle of conservation of energy, and some common types include gravitational, elastic, chemical, and nuclear potential energy. The formula for calculating potential energy varies depending on the type, and it is used in everyday applications such as powering our bodies, generating electricity, and providing thrilling roller coaster rides.
  • #1
ProjketSparky
1
0
A worker pushed a 27 kg block 7.8 m along a level floor at constant speed with a force directed 33° below the horizontal.
(a) If the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.20, how much work was done by the worker's force?
(b) How much energy was dissipated by the frictional force?
please i really don't know how to answer this.
 
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  • #2
You HAVE to able to start before anyone can help you. Draw a force diagram. What forces are acting on the block?
 

FAQ: AP Physics-Potential Energy and Conservation.

What is potential energy?

Potential energy is the energy that an object has due to its position or composition. It is stored energy that can be released and converted into other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy.

How is potential energy related to conservation laws?

Potential energy is related to the principle of conservation of energy, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. This means that the total amount of energy in a system remains constant, including potential energy.

What are some common types of potential energy?

Some common types of potential energy include gravitational potential energy, elastic potential energy, chemical potential energy, and nuclear potential energy. These types of potential energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as electrical, thermal, or mechanical energy.

How is potential energy calculated?

The formula for calculating potential energy varies depending on the type of potential energy. For gravitational potential energy, the formula is PE = mgh, where m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the object. For elastic potential energy, the formula is PE = 1/2kx^2, where k is the spring constant and x is the displacement from equilibrium. For chemical potential energy, the formula is PE = qΔV, where q is the charge and ΔV is the change in voltage.

How is potential energy used in real life?

Potential energy is used in many everyday applications. For example, potential energy is stored in food and is converted into kinetic energy to power our bodies. It is also used in hydropower plants, where the potential energy of water is converted into electrical energy. In roller coasters, potential energy is converted into kinetic energy to provide the thrilling ride. Potential energy is also used in devices such as springs, batteries, and rubber bands.

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