Q7DQ - University Physics with Modern Physics

Question

A woman bounces on a trampoline, going a little higher with each bounce. Explain how she increases the total mechanical energy.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The total energy is increased by increasing the potential energy.

 

Step 1: Concept/Significance of total mechanical

If there are only the gravitational and elastic forces work on a particle, then the sum of kinetic and potential energies will be conserved. This sum $\mathit{E}\mathbf{=}\mathit{K}\mathbf{+}\mathit{U}$ is known as the total mechanical energy of the particle.

 

Step 2: Explain the increase in mechanical energy

When a woman bounces on a trampoline, she transfers some muscular energy from her legs and body to depress the trampoline a little further each time to rebound higher. That is why she goes a little higher with each bounce.

 

 Therefore, she acquires more potential energy for the next descent and the total mechanical energy of the woman will be increased.