Work on a sliding Block

danni7070

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
A block of weight w sits on a frictionless inclined plane, which makes an angle (theta) with respect to the horizontal. A force of magnitude F, applied parallel to the incline, pulls the block up the plane at constant speed.

1)The block moves a distance up the incline. The block does not stop after moving this distance but continues to move with constant speed. What is the total work Wtot done on the block by all forces? (Include only the work done after the block has started moving, not the work needed to start the block moving from rest.)

2)What is Wg, the work done on the block by the force of gravity as the block moves a distance up the incline?

2. Relevant equations

Wtot = the sum of all work factors right ? So I have to find the work from the force going up the ramp, the work from gravity. ??


3. The attempt at a solution

I think the answer to q1 is W-tot = FL + (-wsin(theta))+N (The opposite force of mg = w)

But this is not correct but I don't know why?

Anyone?

learningphysics

For the total work, what does the work energy theorem say?

for work done by gravity, use work = [tex]\vec{F}\cdot\vec{d}[/tex]

guslergusler

love how i got Wgravity wrong...


Wf= -mgcos(theta) * L

(from masteringphysics, your answer is off by a multiplactive factor..)

learningphysics

Wf is work by the force F?

Wf = mgsin(theta)*L

F must be mgsin(theta) acting up the plane.

guslergusler

sorry i meant force done by gravity

learningphysics

work done by gravity is -mgsin(theta)*L

guslergusler

that's exactly what i put....

but masteringphysics says i'm off by a multiplactive factor,,

learningphysics

hmmm... did you put in -wsin(theta)*L exactly?

guslergusler

thank you

my fault ... i input -wgsin(theta)*L

learningphysics

no prob.