How to Calculate Work Done by Tension in a Vertical Rope for a Moving Mass

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To calculate the work done by tension in a vertical rope lowering a mass, the equation W = m(g - a)d is discussed, where m is mass, g is gravitational acceleration, a is the constant acceleration, and d is the distance moved. The initial attempt at solving the problem leads to confusion regarding the correct application of the work formula, specifically the dot product in W = F · d. After some back and forth, it is clarified that the force and distance values are correct, but the initial equation was misapplied. Ultimately, the user finds the correct solution, confirming that the approach to calculating work done by tension was resolved.
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Sorry for the second post, but I want to know how to solve such problem when it comes to this situation.

Homework Statement



A vertical rope is used to lower a block of mass M = 48.3 kg at a constant acceleration of magnitude a = 1.54 m/s2. Find WT, the work done by the tension in the cord if the mass moves down distance s = 2.47 m.

Homework Equations



→W = mad

The Attempt at a Solution



Hm... Tried to use this form:

W = m(g - a)d

But I'm not sure if I'm at the right path.
 
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It seems correct to me :)
m(g-a) is the force used to reduce the block acceleration.
then m(g-a)d is the work done..nothing else to be considered anymore from here
 
Hi NasuSama! :smile:
NasuSama said:
→W = mad

No.

The definition of work done is W = F "dot" d
Hm... Tried to use this form:

W = m(g - a)d

But I'm not sure if I'm at the right path.

How did you get that equation? Did you use F = ma?

If so, your F is correct, your d is correct, but your "dot" isn't. :wink:
 
tiny-tim said:
Hi NasuSama! :smile:No.

The definition of work done is W = F "dot" dHow did you get that equation? Did you use F = ma?

If so, your F is correct, your d is correct, but your "dot" isn't. :wink:

So W = F * d [Can't do the dot].

I used F = ma to get the equation. What about the answer? Is it correct. You said F is correct and d is correct, right?

My answer is around 987 J, but it's incorrect.
 
W = m(g - a) [dot] d doesn't seem quite right.
 
Never mind. I got the solution!
 
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