Does Height Matter: Work Done by Gravity on Inclined Planes
What is the relationship between the height of an inclined plane and the work done by gravity on objects placed on it?
a. Work done on cart A is greater than on cart B.
b. Work done on cart B is greater than on cart A.
c. Both carts have equal work done on them.
d. Neither carts have work done on them.
Answer:
The correct answer is: a. Work done on cart A is greater than on cart B.
The subject of this question is Physics, particularly focused on the concept of work done by gravitational force. Let's break this down:
When a cart descends on an inclined plane without friction, gravity is the primary factor doing work. The work done by gravity is equal to the weight of the object (which is a constant for both carts due to their identical nature) times the vertical distance descended. Thus, the work done depends on the vertical height - not the length of the inclined plane.
Since cart A starts at a higher elevation than cart B, it descends through a greater vertical distance. Therefore, the work done on cart A is greater than on cart B.
Option a. Work done on cart A is greater than on cart B, holds true.