Work of a object moving across surfaces with different friction

In summary, Hetsut, the foreman of a construction project in ancient Egypt, needs to move a 12 metric ton block of stone from the docks to the temple grounds. If they go along the roads, traveling 295 meters east and 89 meters north, the team would have to do a total work of 39.7E6 J, taking into account the coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.12 between the block and the ground. However, if they take a direct route across the fields, the work needed would be 28.3E6 J, as the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and dirt is higher at 0.22. This is the work the foreman would have to overcome due
  • #1
ac7597
126
6
Homework Statement
Hetsut is the foreman of a construction project in ancient Egypt. He needs to move a giant block of stone, of mass 12 metric tons, from the docks to the temple grounds. He can go along the roads by travelling 295 meters east, then 89 meters north. Along the roads, the coefficient of kinetic friction between block and ground is 0.12.

"Excuse me, honored foreman," says one of the workmen, "but would it be better to take a short cut along a direct route, across the fields?" The foreman thinks for a moment -- he knows that the coefficient of kinetic friction between stone and dirt in the fields is higher, about 0.22.

How much work would the team have to do on the block to move it from rest at the docks to a position at rest at the temple grounds, if they go along the roads?

How much work would the team have to do on the block to move it from rest at the docks to a position at rest at the temple grounds, if they go straight across the fields?
Relevant Equations
work of gravity=mgH
12 metric ton=12000kg
straight length=(295^2+89^2)^(1/2)=308.13m
Homework Statement: Hetsut is the foreman of a construction project in ancient Egypt. He needs to move a giant block of stone, of mass 12 metric tons, from the docks to the temple grounds. He can go along the roads by traveling 295 meters east, then 89 meters north. Along the roads, the coefficient of kinetic friction between block and ground is 0.12.

"Excuse me, honored foreman," says one of the workmen, "but would it be better to take a short cut along a direct route, across the fields?" The foreman thinks for a moment -- he knows that the coefficient of kinetic friction between stone and dirt in the fields is higher, about 0.22.

How much work would the team have to do on the block to move it from rest at the docks to a position at rest at the temple grounds, if they go along the roads?

How much work would the team have to do on the block to move it from rest at the docks to a position at rest at the temple grounds, if they go straight across the fields?
Homework Equations: work of gravity=mgH
12 metric ton=12000kg
straight length=(295^2+89^2)^(1/2)=308.13m

work=mgH-u(mgH).
work to east=(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(295m)-(0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(295m)=30.5E6 J
work to north=(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(89m)-(0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(89m)=9.21E6 J
total work= 30.5E6 J+ 9.21E6 J= 39.7E6 J

work to straight=(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(308.13m)-(0.22)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(308.13m)=28.3E6 J
 
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  • #2
ac7597 said:
work to east=(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(295m)-(0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(295m)
I do not understand this calculation. Is the first term work against gravity? The block is not being hoisted up 295m. And why subtract work against friction?
 
  • #3
Is it just the work of friction that the foreman will have to overcome?
(0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(295m) + (0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(89m)=work on the road

(0.22)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(308.13m)=work straight to the temple
 
  • #4
ac7597 said:
Is it just the work of friction that the foreman will have to overcome?
(0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(295m) + (0.12)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(89m)=work on the road

(0.22)(12000kg)(9.8m/s^2)(308.13m)=work straight to the temple
Yes.
 

1. How does friction affect the movement of an object across different surfaces?

Friction is the force that resists the motion of an object across a surface. The type and amount of friction present will determine the speed and direction of the object's movement. Different surfaces have varying levels of friction, which can either aid or hinder the object's movement.

2. What factors can influence the amount of friction on a surface?

The amount of friction present on a surface can be affected by several factors, such as the texture and roughness of the surface, the weight and shape of the moving object, and the presence of any lubricants or other substances on the surface.

3. How does the type of surface affect the amount of friction on an object?

The type of surface can greatly impact the amount of friction on an object. Smooth surfaces tend to have less friction, allowing for easier movement, while rough surfaces have more friction, making it more difficult for the object to move. Additionally, some surfaces, such as ice, can have very low friction, causing the object to slide easily.

4. Can friction be beneficial in the movement of an object across surfaces?

Yes, friction can be beneficial in certain situations. For example, when walking or driving, friction between our feet or tires and the ground helps us maintain traction and control. In sports, friction can also be beneficial in allowing athletes to change direction quickly or stop suddenly.

5. How can friction be reduced to improve the movement of an object across surfaces?

Friction can be reduced in several ways, such as using lubricants, polishing or smoothing the surface, or using different materials with lower coefficients of friction. Additionally, increasing the speed or adding wheels or other mechanisms can also help reduce friction and improve the movement of the object.

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