Forces problem with a crate, what's doing the work?

In summary, the crate is pushed with a constant velocity for a distance of 5m, with a friction force of 5 N. The net work done on the crate is 25 units, while the work done by gravity is zero. The work done by the friction force can be determined by multiplying the frictional force by the displacement, while the work done by the external pushing force can be calculated by subtracting the work done by friction from the net work. As the body is moving with a constant velocity, the forces acting on it must be balanced.
  • #1
alchemist31
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Homework Statement


A crate is pushed along the ground at a constant velocity for a distance of 5m. if the friction force is 5 N, how much net work is done on the crate? how much work is done by the friction force? by the external pushing force? by gravity?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I believe the net work is force 5N x displacement 5m, so 25. there's no movement along the y axis, so I'm thinking gravity's work is zero. but how can i determine how much work is done by the friction force, and how much by the external pushing force?
 
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  • #2
Hi there,:smile:
Welcome to PF!

yup, work by gravity is 0, but your net work done is wrong...the 5N is the frictional force acting so the work done by friction can be got from this,(remember the displacement is in opposite direction!)

You are also given body is moving with constant velocity, when can the body do that? In what way must forces act ?
 

1. What is a "forces problem with a crate"?

A forces problem with a crate refers to a situation where a crate is being moved or lifted using a force, and the goal is to determine the amount of work being done on the crate.

2. What types of forces are involved in this problem?

In this type of problem, there are typically two types of forces involved: the applied force (the force being used to move or lift the crate) and the gravitational force (the force of gravity acting on the crate).

3. How do you calculate the work being done on the crate?

The work being done on the crate can be calculated by multiplying the applied force by the distance the crate is being moved or lifted. This is known as the work-energy theorem: W = F x d.

4. Why is understanding work important in this problem?

Understanding work is important in this problem because it allows us to quantify the amount of energy being transferred to the crate. This can help us determine the efficiency of the process and make informed decisions about how to best move or lift the crate.

5. Are there any other factors that could affect the work being done on the crate?

Yes, there are other factors that could affect the work being done on the crate. These include the angle at which the force is applied, the friction between the crate and the surface it is being moved on, and any external forces acting on the crate.

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