Step 1: Analyze the energy transfer
Given:
- The efficiency of the machine is \( \frac{2}{3} \).
- The total energy used is 12 J.
- The mass of the block is 2 kg.
The total energy used is \( 12 \, {J} \), but the machine only uses \( \frac{2}{3} \) of that energy to lift the block, so the effective energy that goes into raising the block is:
\[
{Effective Energy} = \frac{2}{3} \times 12 = 8 \, {J}
\]
Step 2: Use the energy equation to calculate velocity
The potential energy at the height to which the block is raised is equal to the effective energy used by the machine. The potential energy is given by:
\[
PE = mgh
\]
where:
- \( m = 2 \, {kg} \) (mass of the block),
- \( g = 9.8 \, {m/s}^2 \) (acceleration due to gravity),
- \( h \) is the height the block is lifted.
Using the relation \( PE = mgh = 8 \, {J} \), we can solve for \( h \):
\[
8 = 2 \times 9.8 \times h
\]
\[
h = \frac{8}{2 \times 9.8} = \frac{8}{19.6} = 0.408 \, {m}
\]
Now, the block falls through the same height \( h \), and its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy when it reaches the ground. The kinetic energy at the ground is:
\[
KE = \frac{1}{2} m v^2
\]
Equating the potential energy and kinetic energy:
\[
8 = \frac{1}{2} \times 2 \times v^2
\]
Solving for \( v \):
\[
v^2 = \frac{8}{1} = 8 \quad \Rightarrow \quad v = \sqrt{8} = 2 \sqrt{2} \, {ms}^{-1}
\]
Thus, the velocity of the block when it reaches the ground is \( 2 \sqrt{2} \, {ms}^{-1} \).