Question

Find an expression for the kinetic energy of the car at the top of the loop.Express the kinetic energy in terms of m, g, h, and R.

Answer 1

Answer:

K.E₂ = mg(h - 2R)

Explanation:

The diagram of the car at the top of the loop is given below. Considering the initial position of the car and the final position as the top of the loop. We apply law of conservation of energy:

K.E₁ + P.E₁ = K.E₂ + P.E₂

where,

K.E₁ = Initial Kinetic Energy = (1/2)mv² = (1/2)m(0 m/s)² = 0 (car initially at rest)

P.E₁ = Initial Potential Energy = mgh

K.E₂ = Final Kinetic Energy at the top of the loop = ?

P.E₂ = Final Potential Energy = mg(2R) (since, the height at top of loop is 2R)

Therefore,

0 + mgh = K.E₂ + mg(2R)

K.E₂ = mg(h - 2R)