Does Work Have Infinite Speed in Physics?

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Work does not have infinite speed in physics; instead, the transfer of energy through a material occurs at the speed of sound within that material. For example, in high-strength steel, this speed can reach approximately 6000 m/s, significantly faster than the speed of sound in air. The discussion touches on misconceptions related to relativity, particularly the idea that a long stick could transmit motion instantaneously or exceed the speed of light. The concept of rotational motion and its effects on distant points along an object is also explored, with emphasis on the limitations imposed by the speed of sound. Understanding these principles is crucial for grasping the fundamentals of physics and relativity.
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Hello,

I'm sorry if this question seems a bit ignorant, but I don't yet have an extensive knowledge of physics. My question is, does work (W) have infinite speed? For example, if one had a rod, and one turned it, would the rotational motion be transferred from the end of the rod where one was turning, to the other end instantly? Or would kinetic energy be transferred through vibrations? In the latter case, what would be the maximum speed possible?

Thanks in advance.
 
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The maximum speed of an impulse in a material is (basically) the speed of sound in that material. You don't notice because the speed of sound in most solids is very high, eg in high strength steel it's about 6000m/s, compared to 350m/s in air
 
Ah, that makes sense. Thanks.
 
It comes up often in relativity. The fist thing a student thinks of is, if i have a light year long stick I can prod somebody a lightyear away and break the speed of light limit.
 
NobodySpecial said:
It comes up often in relativity. The fist thing a student thinks of is, if i have a light year long stick I can prod somebody a lightyear away and break the speed of light limit.

! It's like you read my MIND !

Actually, when I first learned relativity I tried to imagine a galaxy long stick spinning about an axis perpendicular to its length. Specifically I tried to figure out what it might look like if a point at L/2 were going 0.99c, how fast is the tip moving?!
 

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