Constant velocity and work done

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of work done on a body moving with constant velocity, particularly in the context of kinetic energy and the Work Energy Theorem. Participants explore the implications of constant velocity on energy changes and work done.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between constant velocity and work done, with some asserting that work done is zero due to no change in kinetic energy. Others reference the Work Energy Theorem and the role of conservative and non-conservative forces in this context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the Work Energy Theorem and questioning the assumptions regarding conservative forces like gravity. There is acknowledgment of differing interpretations regarding the conditions under which work is considered.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note the importance of distinguishing between conservative and non-conservative forces, particularly in relation to gravitational effects on work done. There is an ongoing exploration of definitions and theorems relevant to the problem.

Samia qureshi
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if a body is moving with constant velocity. Its work done will be? in my point of view Work done is change in energy. Constant velocity means no change in energy. So work done is zero am i right?
 
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Yes, in the absence of fields the work done is equal to the difference of Kinetic energies at two different points: $$W=\Delta KE.$$ Since the velocity is constant, then $$\Delta KE=0.$$
 
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Mr-R said:
Yes, in the absence of fields the work done is equal to the difference of Kinetic energies at two different points: $$W=\Delta KE.$$ Since the velocity is constant, then $$\Delta KE=0.$$

Thank you :smile:
 
Perhaps read up on the Work Energy Theorem. This says that the work done by all forces acting on a particle equals the change in the kinetic energy of the particle. In some cases you have to consider the negative work done by gravity or air resistance.
 
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I think I should have written in the absence of non-conservative fields :)
 
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CWatters said:
Perhaps read up on the Work Energy Theorem. This says that the work done by all forces acting on a particle equals the change in the kinetic energy of the particle. In some cases you have to consider the negative work done by gravity or air resistance.

thank you :)
 
Mr-R said:
I think I should have written in the absence of non-conservative fields :)
That still leaves out gravity, if the object is moving partially or wholly in a gravitational field. And gravity is conservative!
 
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rude man said:
That still leaves out gravity, if the object is moving partially or wholly in a gravitational field. And gravity is conservative!
You are absolutely right. The work-energy theorem is true for general forces regardless of them being conservative or not (depends on the resultant force). $$\Sigma W=\Delta KE$$ where $$\Sigma=W_c+W_{nc}$$ Conservative and non conservative, respectively. Is this correct?
 
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Mr-R said:
You are absolutely right. The work-energy theorem is true for general forces regardless of them being conservative or not (depends on the resultant force). $$\Sigma W=\Delta KE$$ where $$\Sigma=W_c+W_{nc}$$ Conservative and non conservative, respectively. Is this correct?
Yes, although more conventionally we say that the work done on a mass equals the gain in its potential plus kinetic energy. You have essentially conflated p.e. into work but I guess that is OK too.
 
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