Simple equation to show work done on an equipotential surface is zero

In summary, the equation w = ΔKE + ΔPE describes the relationship between the change in kinetic energy and the change in potential energy for a particle moving at constant speed. On an equipotential surface, where the height does not change, there is no change in potential energy. This is true regardless of the specific form of potential energy.
  • #1
negation
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w = ΔKE + ΔPE

For a particle moving at constant speed, there is no change in velocity so no change in KE. What about change in PE for a partcile moving at constant speed on a equipotential surface? Would I be right in stating that since the particle moves along the same surface (AKA same height), there is no change in height and therefore no change in PE?
 
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  • #2
Yes.You are correct.
 
  • #3
I don't think I would phrase it in terms of "height". There are many ways of having potential energy that have nothing to do with height. As long as the object is moving on an "equipotential surface", its potential energy doesn't change- by definition of "equipotential".
 

What is an equipotential surface?

An equipotential surface is a hypothetical surface in a field where the potential at every point on the surface is the same.

How is work defined in physics?

In physics, work is defined as the energy transferred to or from an object by means of a force acting on the object as it moves.

Why is the work done on an equipotential surface considered to be zero?

The work done on an equipotential surface is considered to be zero because the potential at every point on the surface is the same, so there is no change in potential energy and therefore no work done.

Can the work done on an equipotential surface ever be non-zero?

No, the work done on an equipotential surface can never be non-zero because by definition, the potential at every point on the surface is the same, so there is no change in potential energy.

How is the concept of equipotential surfaces used in practical applications?

The concept of equipotential surfaces is used in various practical applications, such as in designing electrical circuits, creating maps of gravitational or electric fields, and understanding the behavior of particles in a magnetic field.

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