A Champion Weightlifter and Potential Energy
How much potential energy has the barbell gained?
Potential Energy PE = Mass (m) x Gravity (g) x Height (h)
Given that the weightlifter has raised a barbell with a mass of 240kg to a height of 2.1m,
we can now substitute the values into the equation:
PE = 240kg x 9.8m/s² x 2.1m
PE = 4,998.24 Joules (J)
Therefore, the champion weightlifter has transferred 4,998.24 Joules of energy to the barbell by raising it a distance of 2.1m. This potential energy can be converted to other forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, as the weightlifter begins to lower the barbell.
Understanding Potential Energy in Weightlifting
When a weightlifter lifts a barbell, they are exerting force on the barbell and doing work on it. This action results in the transfer of energy to the barbell, which is known as potential energy. The amount of potential energy gained by the barbell is determined by its mass and the height to which it is raised.
Calculation of Potential Energy
Potential Energy (PE) = Mass (m) x Gravity (g) x Height (h)
Given values:
Mass (m) = 240kg
Gravity (g) = 9.8m/s²
Height (h) = 2.1m
Substituting the values into the formula, we get:
PE = 240kg x 9.8m/s² x 2.1m = 4,998.24 Joules (J)
Conclusion
The champion weightlifter has gained 4,998.24 Joules of potential energy by raising the 240kg barbell to a height of 2.1m. This energy can be further converted into other forms as the weightlifter performs more actions with the barbell.