Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 25 - Think and Explain - Page 482-483: 53

Answer

Yes, a cyclist will coast farther if the lamp (powered from the bicycle's generator) is shut off.

Work Step by Step

Energy is conserved. The energy that goes into lighting the lamp ultimately comes from the bike’s kinetic energy. By not lighting the lamp, that energy is available to push the bike just a bit farther against frictional forces.
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