What is the peak velocity of the shot putter's weighted ball?

In summary, the shot putter throws a 4.00 kg weight with a velocity of 14.0 m/s and a height of 2.00 m above the ground. The weight reaches a maximum height of 6.50 m before falling back down. Using the equations for kinetic and potential energy, the magnitude of the weighted ball's velocity at the peak of its trajectory is calculated to be 10.38 m/s. The weight is not thrown vertically, so the velocity is not zero at the peak.
  • #1
PVnRT81
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Homework Statement



A shot putter throws her shot. At the moment the 4.00 kg weight leaves her hand, it as a velocity of 14.0 m/s and is 2.00 m above the ground. The weight reaches a maximum height of 6.50 m above the ground before falling back down.

What is the magnitude of the weighted ball's velocity at the peak of its trajectory?

Homework Equations



Ek = (0.5)(m)(v2)
Ep = (m)(g)(h)

The Attempt at a Solution



(0.5)(m)(v2) initial + (m)(g)(h) initial = (0.5)(m)(v2) final+ (m)(g)(h) final

(0.5)( 14 m/s)2 + (2 m)(9.8 m/s2) = (0.5)(v2) + (9.8 m/s2)(6.5 m)

Vpeak = 5.19 m/s

I don't know if this is correct... isn't the velocity at the peak supposed to be zero as all the energy is potential.
 
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  • #2
PVnRT81 said:
isn't the velocity at the peak supposed to be zero as all the energy is potential.

Yes, but when? What type of motion are you dealing with?
 
  • #3
Hint: you mentioned a shot put.
 
  • #4
PVnRT81 said:
Vpeak = 5.19 m/s
Your approach is correct, but I don't see how you got that answer. Resolve for the velocity.

I don't know if this is correct... isn't the velocity at the peak supposed to be zero as all the energy is potential.
Note that the weight is not thrown vertically.
 
  • #5
The peak velocity is 10.38 m/s.
 
  • #6
PVnRT81 said:
The peak velocity is 10.38 m/s.
That's better.
 

FAQ: What is the peak velocity of the shot putter's weighted ball?

1. What is conservation of energy?

The law of conservation of energy states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but it can only be transformed from one form to another. This means that the total amount of energy in a closed system remains constant over time.

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Energy is conserved in everyday life through various processes such as energy transfer, conversion, and storage. For example, when we turn on a light bulb, electrical energy is converted into light and heat energy, but the total amount of energy remains constant.

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Conservation of energy is crucial for the environment because most forms of energy production have negative impacts on the environment. By understanding and practicing conservation of energy, we can reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and minimize our impact on the environment.

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