Mechanics: Work, Energy and Power

Work, Energy and Power: Audio Guided Solution

Problem 12:

A 78-kg skydiver has a speed of 62 m/s at an altitude of 870 m above the ground.

a. Determine the kinetic energy possessed by the skydiver.
b. Determine the potential energy possessed by the skydiver.
c. Determine the total mechanical energy possessed by the skydiver.

Audio Guided Solution

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Habits of an Effective Problem Solver

  • Read the problem carefully and develop a mental picture of the physical situation. If necessary, sketch a simple diagram of the physical situation to help you visualize it.
  • Identify the known and unknown quantities in an organized manner. Equate given values to the symbols used to represent the corresponding quantity - e.g., vo = 0 m/s; a = 4.2 m/s/s; vf = 22.9 m/s; d = ???.
  • Use physics formulas and conceptual reasoning to plot a strategy for solving for the unknown quantity.
  • Identify the appropriate formula(s) to use.
  • Perform substitutions and algebraic manipulations in order to solve for the unknown quantity.

Read About It!

Get more information on the topic of Work, Energy and Power at The Physics Classroom Tutorial.

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