A bicyclist initially travels at a steady 8 m/s for 100 seconds on a straight le

Question

A bicyclist initially travels at a steady 8 m/s for 100 seconds on a straight level road, and then takes 40 seconds to slow to 5 m/s. Three English majors discussing this situation make the following contentions about the bicycle's kinetic energy. With which, if any, do you agree?


A.Axel: "The bicycle is just going to slow down naturally. It doesn't take any work for something to slow down."
B.Bram: "I disagree. The speed of the bike decreased, so there is a change in kinetic energy. That means work was done on the bike."
C.Cassie: "I think Axel is right that no work was done, but I don't agree with his reason. There is no work being done here because there are no external forces being exerted."
D.None of them are correct. Back to Physics for them all!

Explanation / Answer

B.Bram: "I disagree. The speed of the bike decreased, so there is a change in kinetic energy. That means work was done on the bike."

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