Find the total mechanical energy.

In summary, the conversation is about finding the total mechanical energy of a piston in SHM with a frequency of 120Hz and a distance of 2mm. The question is whether there is a way to find the energy without knowing the piston's mass, and the answer provided is 14 \mu~J. However, it is pointed out that the energy is proportional to the mass and it is unclear if the mass is given elsewhere.
  • #1
YMasoud
1
0
Good day,
I found this question on the Web.

A piston in an engine moves back and forth over a distance of 2mm in SHM with a frequency of 120Hz. Find the total mechanical energy.

Is there a way to find the energy without knowing the piston's mass?
The answer provided is [tex]14 \mu~J[/tex]

Many thanks,
YMasoud
 
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  • #2
I don't see how--the energy would be proportional to the mass (given fixed frequency and amplitude). Perhaps the mass is given elsewhere.
 
  • #3
YMasoud said:
Good day,
I found this question on the Web.

A piston in an engine moves back and forth over a distance of 2mm in SHM with a frequency of 120Hz. Find the total mechanical energy.

Is there a way to find the energy without knowing the piston's mass?
The answer provided is [tex]14 \mu~J[/tex]

Many thanks,
YMasoud
I don't see how. The total energy is [itex] {1 \over 2} m \omega^2 A^2 [/itex].
 
  • #4
I've been looking for a way to do it without the mass and I can't see it...
 

FAQ: Find the total mechanical energy.

What is mechanical energy?

Mechanical energy is the sum of potential energy and kinetic energy in a system. It is the energy associated with motion and position of an object.

How do you calculate total mechanical energy?

To calculate total mechanical energy, you need to add the potential energy and kinetic energy of the system. The formula for calculating mechanical energy is: E = PE + KE.

What is the unit of measurement for mechanical energy?

The unit of measurement for mechanical energy is Joules (J). This is the same unit used to measure other forms of energy, such as potential energy and kinetic energy.

What factors can affect total mechanical energy?

The total mechanical energy of a system can be affected by factors such as the mass, velocity, and height of an object. Changes in these variables can alter the potential and kinetic energy, thus changing the total mechanical energy.

Why is it important to calculate total mechanical energy?

Calculating total mechanical energy is important because it helps us understand the behavior of a system and how energy is transformed within it. It is also important in engineering and physics applications, as it can help determine the efficiency and stability of a system.

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