On the work done on a frictionless surface

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of work done on a mass placed on a frictionless surface, defined by the equation Work Done = Force Applied * Displacement. It is established that if a force (N1) is applied parallel to the surface, it results in acceleration and converts work into kinetic energy. Conversely, applying force perpendicular to the surface results in no movement, thus no work done. The notion of infinite displacement leading to infinite work is clarified as impossible, as work cannot be performed over an infinite distance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic knowledge of work-energy principles
  • Familiarity with the concept of frictionless surfaces
  • Knowledge of force vectors and their components
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of Newton's laws of motion in detail
  • Explore the work-energy theorem and its applications
  • Learn about frictionless dynamics and its implications in physics
  • Investigate vector decomposition of forces in physics problems
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of work and energy in frictionless environments.

aditya ver.2.0
Messages
67
Reaction score
4
Work done = force applied * displacement

So if I exert N1 force on a mass placed over a friction less floor, then the displacement = ∞.
Then won't the work done = ∞.
How is possible?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
In which direction are you applying the force and for how long?

If you apply the force parallel to the floor, then you will accelerate the mass and the work you perform with that force will turn into kinetic energy of the mass. If you apply the force normal to the floor, the normal force of the floor will cancel the force and there will be no movement and hence no work done.
 
aditya ver.2.0 said:
Then won't the work done = ∞.
Only if you apply the force over an infinite distance.
aditya ver.2.0 said:
How is possible?
It isn't.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
833
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 77 ·
3
Replies
77
Views
6K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
3K