Finding the speed before impact using the work-energy theorem

In summary, the work-energy theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. It can be used to find the speed before impact by calculating the work done on the object and equating it to the change in its kinetic energy. To use this method, you will need to know the work done on the object and its mass. However, there are limitations to using this method as it assumes that the net work done on the object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy, which may not always be the case. This theorem can also be used for objects with varying mass, but the mass of the object should be taken into account when using the equation to find the speed before impact.
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tiffannielee
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Homework Statement


A blue whale materializes 11.5 km above an airless planet with an acceleration of gravity of 6.85 m/s2. What is the speed of the whale right before impact? Use the work energy theorem.

Homework Equations



Work energy theorem : W = the change in k
W=kf - ko
w=1/2(mvf2) - 1/2(mvo2)
 
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  • #2
So what force acts on the whale? How much work is done by that force as the whale falls to the surface?
 

FAQ: Finding the speed before impact using the work-energy theorem

What is the work-energy theorem?

The work-energy theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. This means that the net work done on an object will result in a change in its speed.

How can the work-energy theorem be used to find the speed before impact?

The work-energy theorem can be used to find the speed before impact by calculating the work done on an object and equating it to the change in its kinetic energy. This equation can then be rearranged to solve for the initial speed.

What information is needed to use the work-energy theorem to find the speed before impact?

To use the work-energy theorem to find the speed before impact, you will need to know the work done on the object and its mass. The work can be calculated by multiplying the applied force by the distance over which it acts.

Are there any limitations to using the work-energy theorem to find the speed before impact?

Yes, there are some limitations to using the work-energy theorem. This method assumes that the net work done on the object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. This may not be the case if there are other forces acting on the object that are not taken into account.

Can the work-energy theorem be used for objects with varying mass?

Yes, the work-energy theorem can be used for objects with varying mass. However, it is important to note that the mass of the object will affect the amount of work needed to change its speed, so this should be taken into account when using the equation to find the speed before impact.

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