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Question

Which of the following best defines 'work' in physics?

The correct answer is

Work is done when a force moves an object in the direction of the force.

To determine the correct definition of 'work' in physics, we will evaluate the provided options based on our understanding of the concept of work in classical mechanics.

In physics, work is defined as the process of energy transfer to an object via a force that causes the object to move. The mathematical expression for work done by a constant force is given by:

\(W = F \cdot d \cdot \cos \theta\)

where:

  • \(W\) is the work done (measured in Joules).
  • \(F\) is the magnitude of the force applied (measured in Newtons).
  • \(d\) is the displacement of the object in the direction of the force (measured in meters).
  • \(\theta\) is the angle between the force and the direction of displacement.

Based on this formula, work is done only when a force causes an object's displacement, specifically in the direction of the force vector's component parallel to the displacement. Therefore, we can analyze the options:

  1. Work is done if a force acts at any angle to the motion.
  2. Work is done whenever a force is applied, regardless of movement.
  3. Work is done when a force moves an object in the direction of the force.
  4. Work is done when energy is stored in an object.

Thus, the correct answer is: Work is done when a force moves an object in the direction of the force.

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Similar Questions

  1. When a moving car suddenly applies brakes, its kinetic energy is transformed mainly into which form of energy?

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  3. A car of mass 1200 kg accelerates from rest to a speed of 20 m/s on a straight road. If the kinetic energy gained by the car is completely due to the work done by the engine, which of the following best represents the total kinetic energy acquired by the car at this speed?

  4. Which of the following scenarios best demonstrates the conversion of chemical energy to mechanical energy?

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  9. If a force acts on a body but no displacement occurs, the work done is:

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Important Questions from Work Power and Energy

  1. A boy raises a box with a weight of 120 N from a height of 2 m. The work done by him is ________.

  2. While releasing the arrow from a stretched bow, the Potential Energy of the bow is converted into?

  3. Which is the main source of almost all energy on Earth?

  4. Area under constant velocity – time curve equals ________ of the object over a given time interval.

  5. If a body of mass is m, linear momentum is p and kinetic energy is K, then which of the following expressions is true?

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