Chapter 4.3, Problem 33R

To determine

To calculate: The amount mechanical energy converted into thermal energy.

Answer to Problem 33R

  $\underset{\_}{\text{4000 J}}$ of mechanical energy is converted into thermal energy.

Explanation of Solution

Given data:

Mechanical energy of the bicycle at the top of the hill, $E_{mechanical}=6000\text{ J}$

Gravitational potential energy of the bicycle at the bottom of the hill, $GPE=2000\text{ J}$

Concept used:

Gravitational potential energy is a form of mechanical energy.

Total energy of a system is conserved.

Calculation:

As per the problem,

  $\begin{array}{l}{E}_{mechanical}=6000\text{ J}\\ GPE=2000\text{ J}\end{array}$

Since, Gravitational potential energy is a form of mechanical energy.

So, amount of mechanical energy converted to thermal energy is

  $E_{thermal}=E_{mechanical}-GPE=6000\text{ J}-2000\text{ J}=\text{4000 J}$

Conclusion:

  $\underset{\_}{\text{4000 J}}$ of mechanical energy is converted into thermal energy.