IB Physics SL A.3.8 Mechanical Energy Transformations

Practise tracking kinetic, gravitational and elastic energy between named states, including rolling energy and dissipative work, before solving for speed, height or spring…

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
—
Level
SL

Exam points

  • write an energy balance between clearly defined initial and final states before substituting values
  • include translational and rotational kinetic energy for rolling objects without slipping
  • add work by friction or drag as dissipated energy instead of assuming mechanical energy is conserved

A.3.8—Mechanical energy transformations question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

An elastic climbing rope is tested by fixing one end of the rope to the top of a crane. The other end of the rope is connected to a block which is initially at position A. The block is released from rest. The mass of the rope is negligible.

Figure for Question A.3.8—Mechanical energy transformations question 1 — IB Physics SL

The unextended length of the rope is 60.0 m . From position A to position B, the block falls freely.

Question (a)

(a)

For the rope and block, describe the energy changes that take place

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

between A and B .

[ 1 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

between B and C .

[ 1 ]
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