Physics Fundamentals: Work Done

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The work done in moving an object up a 6m ramp to a height of 2m is equal to the work done in moving the same object vertically up 2m. This is established by the equation for work done, which states that work equals force multiplied by distance. In both scenarios, the gravitational potential energy gained by the object is the same, as it is dependent solely on the height achieved, not the path taken. Kinetic energy is not a factor in this analysis since the object starts from rest and comes to a halt at the top.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as work, force, and energy.
  • Familiarity with the equations for work done, kinetic energy, and gravitational potential energy.
  • Knowledge of the relationship between distance and height in the context of inclined planes.
  • Ability to perform calculations involving mass, velocity, and gravitational acceleration.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of work-energy theorem in classical mechanics.
  • Learn about the effects of friction on work done on inclined planes.
  • Explore the concept of mechanical advantage in simple machines.
  • Investigate the differences between conservative and non-conservative forces in physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of work and energy in different contexts.

learn2physics
Messages
12
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



This is a theoretical question that I do not quite fully understand. " An object moving up a 6m ramp to a height of 2m v.s vertically moving an object up 2m." Someone tell me the work done is the same for both scenario. How are they the same? Surely kinetic energy is involved in moving the 6m ramp, am I right?

Homework Equations



Work done = Force x Distance
Kinetic Energy = 0.5*mass*velocity^2
Gravitational Potential Energy = mass*acceleration due to gravity*height


The Attempt at a Solution



Can someone explain why moving an object vertically up has the same work done as moving the object up the ramp, both at the same height?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Work out force * distance in both cases.

Assume that the object starts from rest and coasts to a halt at the top in both cases - that allows you to forget about KE.
 

Similar threads

Coefficient of Friction question for a cart going down a wooden ramp
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K
Finding the work done by a block
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Determining Work Done by a Person on a Luggage
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Understanding the Work-Energy Theorem: Solving the Roller Coaster Problem
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Conservation of Energy when lifting a box up off the floor
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Work & Energy (Question on Classical Mechanics/Slope based Problems)
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Determining the factors impacting the amount of Work done
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Conservation of Energy Along an Incline with Friction
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Resistance force changing the velocity of an object
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
About work done through exercise (push ups)
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K