Net External Force & Work Done: Explained & Justified

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SUMMARY

A sailboat moving at a constant velocity experiences no net external force doing work on it, as work is defined as force applied over a distance. In the case of a particle whose speed doubles twice due to a net external force, the net force does more work during the second doubling. This is because work is calculated as the change in kinetic energy, which increases more significantly during the second doubling due to the squared relationship of velocity in the kinetic energy formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the work-energy principle
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy calculations
  • Basic concepts of force and motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the work-energy theorem in detail
  • Learn about the implications of constant velocity on net forces
  • Explore kinetic energy formulas and their applications
  • Investigate real-world examples of net external forces in motion
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Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of work and forces in motion.

clarkandlarry
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A sailboat is moving at a constant velocity. Is work being done by a net external force acting on the boat? Explain.

The speed of a particle doubles and then doubles again because a net external force acts on it. Does the net force do more work during the first or the second doubling? Justify your answer.
 
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Welcome to PF Clark and Larry!

This seems like a homework question, so according to the forum rules, you must show your own thoughts on the problems before anyone can help you.

Also, please post future homework problems in the appropriate Homework forums:

https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=152
 

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