Why does work equals kinetic energy of friction?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the relationship between work and kinetic energy, specifically in the context of a baseball player sliding to a stop due to friction. It explains that the work done by friction is equal to the loss of kinetic energy, as energy cannot be created or destroyed. The player’s kinetic energy is calculated using the formula KE = 0.5mv^2, leading to a negative value indicating energy loss. The work-energy theorem, which states that the change in kinetic energy equals the work done, is emphasized to clarify this relationship. Understanding this principle is crucial for solving problems involving friction and energy conversion.
zzoo4
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Why does work equals kinetic energy of friction??

Homework Statement


After hitting a long fly ball that goes over the right fielder’s
head and lands in the outfield, the batter decides to keep going
past second base and try for third base. The 62.0-kg player begins sliding 3.40 m from the base with a speed of 4.35 m/s. If
the player comes to rest at third base, (a) how much work was
done on the player by friction?




Homework Equations


w=fd
ke=.5mv^2


The Attempt at a Solution



I already know how to do this but

KE= .5X6.2x4.35^2 = -587J

But Why do we use Kinetic energy equation to find the work of friction?
 
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Energy can't be created or destroyed. Friction basically produces heat energy. In order to get this heat energy we need to take it from somewhere else, like kinetic energy.

Energy is the ability to do work so in your problem the work done by friction is equal to the loss of kinetic energy of the baseball player.
 


zzoo4 said:

Homework Equations


w=fd
ke=.5mv^2


The Attempt at a Solution



I already know how to do this but

KE= .5X6.2x4.35^2 = -587J
How did you get a negative answer when multiplying a bunch of positive numbers?
But Why do we use Kinetic energy equation to find the work of friction?
The work-energy theorem says \Delta KE=W. What's ΔKE for the batter?
 


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