In the scenario of a ball being swung in a circle at constant velocity, the forces acting include tension in the string and gravitational force, but only the tension does work on the ball. The discussion emphasizes the need for clarity in defining the problem, such as specifying the environment (e.g., gravitational field or space) and the mechanism of swinging. Participants highlight that understanding the context is crucial for accurately determining which forces perform work. The conversation underscores the importance of providing initial thoughts and a clear problem statement to facilitate meaningful assistance. Overall, the focus remains on the physics of circular motion and the role of forces in doing work.
