The solution at revision #20718 of , by Tete. This is not the current version.

Statement

2.5.21∗. A smooth "slide" of height and mass can slide along a horizontal plane without friction. The slide smoothly turns into a plane. What is the lowest speed of the slide, a small body of mass , initially lying motionless on its path, will pass over the top?

For problem $2.5.21$

Solution

For problem $2.5.21$
For problem

Suppose the slide has minimum initial speed . In the frame of reference of the slide, the mass must have barely any kinetic energy left when it reaches the top of the slide. In other words, the slide and the mass must have the same speed in the original frame of reference when the mass reaches the top. From conservation of momentum,

From conservation of energy,

Solving for , we obtain

Answer