Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 10 - Interactions and Potential Energy - Conceptual Questions - Page 255: 4

Answer

$v_a = v_b = v_c$

Work Step by Step

Let's consider ball a. We can use conservation of energy to find the speed of the ball $v_f$ when the ball reaches the ground. $PE_f+KE_f = PE_0+KE_0$ $0+\frac{1}{2}mv_f^2 = mgh+\frac{1}{2}mv_0^2$ $v_f^2 = 2gh+v_0^2$ $v_f = \sqrt{2gh+v_0^2}$ We can use the same method to find the speed of ball b and ball c when they reach the ground. Since the equation is exactly the same for all three balls, the speed of all three balls will be the same when they reach the ground. Therefore; $v_a = v_b = v_c$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.