Unlimited Work Done in Free Space: The Impact of Force on Small Masses

In summary, if we apply a force on a small mass in open space, it will cover infinite displacement, but the work done will only take into account the distance over which the force is applied. Once the force stops acting, the work will not increase. This means that the energy, or work, in this scenario is finite and is equal to the kinetic energy of the mass.
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Tony Stark
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If we apply force on a small mass in open space, then it will cover infinite displacement. Then would the mass have infinite work done?
 
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The work only takes into account the distance over which the force is applied. Once the force stops acting, the work doesn't increase.
 
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  • #3
Tony Stark said:
If we apply force on a small mass in open space, then it will cover infinite displacement. Then would the mass have infinite work done?

"Work" is energy. In your example, the energy is finite: namely the kinetic energy of the mass.
 
  • #4
axmls said:
The work only takes into account the distance over which the force is applied. Once the force stops acting, the work doesn't increase.
Thanks a lot. It solved my problem clearly:smile::smile:
 

What is work done in free space?

Work done in free space refers to the amount of energy expended in moving an object through a distance in a vacuum or in space where there is no presence of matter or air resistance.

Why is work done in free space important?

Work done in free space is important because it is a fundamental concept in physics and is used to calculate the amount of energy needed to move an object in a vacuum. It is also used in many real-world applications such as space travel and satellite orbit calculations.

How is work done in free space calculated?

The work done in free space is calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance it travels. This can be represented by the equation W = Fd, where W is the work done, F is the force, and d is the distance.

What are some examples of work done in free space?

Some examples of work done in free space include launching a rocket into space, moving objects through a vacuum chamber, and calculating the energy required for satellite propulsion.

Can work be done in free space without any energy expenditure?

No, work cannot be done in free space without any energy expenditure. In order to move an object through a distance in a vacuum, energy must be expended in order to overcome the lack of air resistance or other forms of resistance.

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