Work-Energy Theorem: Find Force on 16g Bullet Accelerated to 1010m/s

In summary, using the work-energy theorem, we can find the average force exerted on a 16 g bullet that is accelerated in a 72.3 cm long rifle barrel to a speed of 1010 m/s. The correct equation for kinetic energy is (mass) * (velocity^2) / 2, resulting in units of N * m. By converting the mass to kg and using the given distance, we can find the force to be 11,287.4 N.
  • #1
blayman5
43
0

Homework Statement


A 16 g bullet is accelerated in a rifle barrel
72.3 cm long to a speed of 1010 m/s.
Use the work-energy theorem to find the
average force exerted on the bullet while it is
being accelerated. Answer in units of N.

Homework Equations


W=changeKE

The Attempt at a Solution


Fx=(mvf^2)/2-(mvi^2)/2
F=((16*1010^2)/2*.723
F=1.1287e7
Did I do this correctly?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
blayman5 said:

Homework Statement


A 16 g bullet is accelerated in a rifle barrel
72.3 cm long to a speed of 1010 m/s.
Use the work-energy theorem to find the
average force exerted on the bullet while it is
being accelerated. Answer in units of N.


Homework Equations


W=changeKE


The Attempt at a Solution


Fx=(mvf^2)/2-(mvi^2)/2
F=((16*1010^2)/2*.723
F=1.1287e7
Did I do this correctly?

Check your units. Looking at your equation

F=((16*1010^2)/2*.723

you have units of

g * m3 / s2


You seem to have the right equation for Kinetic Energy (although wrong units). That is, KE = (mass) * (velocity2) / 2, which should result in units of N * m.
 
  • #3
The way I had it in units was:

N * m = (kg *(m^2/s^2) )/ 2
N = (kg *(m^2/s^2) )/ 2 m
N = (kg *(m/s^2) )/ 2
N= kg * m/s^2

The method in units was correct but i don't know if there is an alternative method to solve this problem.
 
  • #4
almost correct: you should convert 16g to kg, that's all.
 
  • #5
ok, i got 11, 287.4 N thanks
 
  • #6
I have a problem that is quite similar.
But I am confused in the way you were able to find your answer.
when I multiplied your .016kg by 1010^2, I came up with 16321.6
which is not your 11,287.4 N

please explain.
 
  • #7
Remember that F=Wx, so find the work done by kinetic energy

N * m = (kg *(m^2/s^2) )/ 2
N = (kg *(m^2/s^2) )/ 2 m
N = (kg *(m/s^2) )/ 2

Use the distance given to find the force
 
  • #8
Yeah, shortly after I studdied the thread and got it all kinked out.
I love this place.
Thank you anyways.
 

FAQ: Work-Energy Theorem: Find Force on 16g Bullet Accelerated to 1010m/s

What is the Work-Energy Theorem?

The Work-Energy Theorem states that the work done on an object is equal to the change in kinetic energy of the object. In other words, the work done on an object is what causes its change in motion.

How do you calculate the force on a 16g bullet accelerated to 1010m/s using the Work-Energy Theorem?

To calculate the force on the bullet, you would use the formula F = ma, where m is the mass of the bullet (16g) and a is the acceleration (1010m/s^2). This would give you the force in Newtons (N).

Can the Work-Energy Theorem be applied to any object?

Yes, the Work-Energy Theorem can be applied to any object as long as there is a change in its motion and work is being done on the object.

What are the units for work and energy in the Work-Energy Theorem?

The units for work are Joules (J) and the units for energy are also Joules (J). This is because work and energy are both measures of the same thing - the ability to do work or cause motion.

How is the Work-Energy Theorem related to the Law of Conservation of Energy?

The Work-Energy Theorem is a direct result of the Law of Conservation of Energy, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. The work done on an object causes a change in its energy, but the total amount of energy in the system remains constant.

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