Change in the kinetic energy of a car driving up a hill

In summary, the kinetic energy of a car driving up a hill decreases as it ascends due to the increase in gravitational potential energy. As the car climbs, it must work against gravity, resulting in a reduction of its speed and kinetic energy. The energy conversion reflects the relationship between kinetic and potential energy in motion, ultimately leading to a lower kinetic energy at higher elevations compared to its initial state.
  • #1
hello478
165
14
Homework Statement
mentions below in picture
Relevant Equations
energy equations
and work done = f*d moved in direction of force
part i)
i did 1/2 * 1700 * v^2
i dont know what v is...
so how do i solve it?

part ii)
i calculated it correctly by 440*25
please explain in detail why i used 440?

and part d)
i did 1.7*10^4 = 48000/t
my t= 2.82 s
but correct answer is 3.5s

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  • #2
hello478 said:
i dont know what v is...
You aren't being asked to calculate the kinetic energy, you are being asked how much it changes. You don't need the value of ##v## to perform that calculation.
please explain in detail why i used 440?
You are being asked to calculate the work done against the resistive force. What is that resistive force?
and part d)...
The work being done against the resistive force is not the only work that has to be done to get the car up the slope. Find the work that you haven't counted, include it, see what you get.
 
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  • #3
so for the first one
change in KE =0

resistive force is 440 so thats why we use it

and for part d
the total energy would be
gpe + the work done against resistive force
so 48000+440*25 / 17000
so time = 3.47 which is almost equal to 3.5
please tell me if im wrong
and thank you so much for your answer
 
  • #4
Seems about right.
 
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FAQ: Change in the kinetic energy of a car driving up a hill

What factors affect the change in kinetic energy of a car driving up a hill?

The change in kinetic energy of a car driving up a hill is primarily affected by the car's initial speed, the incline of the hill, the mass of the car, frictional forces, and the power output of the car's engine.

How does the incline of the hill impact the car's kinetic energy?

The incline of the hill impacts the car's kinetic energy by increasing the gravitational potential energy as the car climbs. This results in a decrease in kinetic energy if no additional energy is provided by the engine, as some of the car's kinetic energy is converted into potential energy.

Can a car maintain constant kinetic energy while driving up a hill?

A car can maintain constant kinetic energy while driving up a hill if the engine provides enough power to counteract the gravitational force pulling it back. This means the car's engine must do additional work to maintain the same speed, thereby keeping the kinetic energy constant.

What is the relationship between work done by the engine and kinetic energy change?

The work done by the engine on the car is directly related to the change in kinetic energy. If the engine does sufficient work to overcome the gravitational force and any frictional forces, it can either maintain or increase the car's kinetic energy. If the engine does less work, the kinetic energy will decrease.

How does friction affect the kinetic energy of a car driving up a hill?

Frictional forces, such as air resistance and rolling resistance, act against the motion of the car and cause a loss of kinetic energy. The engine must provide additional energy to overcome these forces to maintain or increase the car's kinetic energy while driving up a hill.

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