Physics: Principles with Applications (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32162-592-7
ISBN 13: 978-0-32162-592-2

Chapter 6 - Work and Energy - Problems - Page 164: 12

Answer

The work done by mg is -240 J. The work done by $F_p$ is 240 J. The work done by $F_N$ is 0.

Work Step by Step

Let's find the work done by $mg$ and let's call this $W_G$. $W_G = mg ~sin(\theta)~d ~cos(180^{\circ})$ $W_G = (16 ~kg)(9.80 ~m/s^2) ~sin(12^{\circ})(7.5 ~m)(-1)$ $W_G = -240 ~J$ Since the cart is moving at a constant speed, the acceleration is zero. Therefore, the component of $F_p$ directed up the ramp must be of equal magnitude to the component of the weight directed down the ramp. The work done by $F_p$ must be equal and opposite to the work done by $mg$. $W_F = 240 ~J$ The normal force is at a $90^{\circ}$ angle to the direction of motion. Therefore, the normal force does no work on the cart.
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