Constant velocity and work done

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between constant velocity and work done, concluding that when a body moves with constant velocity, the work done is zero due to no change in kinetic energy (ΔKE = 0). Participants emphasize the importance of the Work Energy Theorem, which states that the work done by all forces equals the change in kinetic energy. They clarify that this theorem applies regardless of whether forces are conservative or non-conservative, and mention the need to consider gravitational forces in certain contexts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Work Energy Theorem
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy and potential energy concepts
  • Familiarity with conservative and non-conservative forces
  • Basic physics principles related to motion and forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Work Energy Theorem in detail
  • Explore the implications of conservative vs. non-conservative forces
  • Learn about gravitational potential energy and its effects on work
  • Investigate real-world applications of work done in physics
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of work and energy in mechanics.

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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