The figure that follows shows three situations in which an external force acts o

Question

The figure that follows shows three situations in which an external force acts on a sled that is sliding toward the right while each force is being applied. Assume that the sled moves the same distance in each case. Also assume that the sled experiences no frictional forces and that the magnitude of the applied force is the same in all three cases. In which case is the work done by the applied force most positive? Most negative? In which case does it have the greatest magnitude? Explain the reasons for your answer.

Explanation / Answer

Let d is the displacement in all the given three cases.

we know, Workdone = F*d*cos(theta) (here theta is the angle between F and d)

in case a) Workdone = F*d*cos(90) = 0

in case b) Workdone = F*d*cos(45) = 0.707*F*d

in case c) workdone = F*d*cos(180) = -F*d

In case b) Workdone is most positive. <<<<<<<<<------------Answer

In cae c) Workdone is most negative. <<<<<<<<<------------Answer

In case c) workdone has greatest magnitude. <<<<<<<<<------------Answer

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