Understanding Work: Calculating Work in Different Scenarios

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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of work and how it relates to standing still and carrying a bag. The equations used to solve the questions are mentioned, with the correct answer being that no work is done in either scenario due to the bag not moving. The conversation ends with the person thanking the expert for their help.
  • #1
physicos
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Homework Statement


Here are two questions I have some trouble answering :
1- How much work do you do when you hold a bag of groceries while standing STILL?
2- How much work do you do when carrying the same bag on a distance d across the parking lot of the grocery store?

Homework Equations



We know that ΔK = W

The Attempt at a Solution


1- In the first question , the person stand still so V = 0 and thus ΔK=0 so the work W=0
2- In the second question, when carrying the bag we only have a gravitational work so W= Wg=0

IS IT CORRECT ?
 
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  • #2
First question:
Yes you are right.There's another way to solve that.
##W=F.s## You are applying an equal and opposite force to that of gravity but it's not moving so ##W=F.0=0##

Second question:
I don't understand that W=Wg part.
The question asked how much work you do.
Use ##W=F.s## and answer!
 
  • #3
what is F and s ??
 
  • #4
physicos said:
what is F and s ??
"F" is the force and "s" is the distance in the direction of the force.
W is the work done.
 
  • #5
Ah ok , I got it ! Thank you SO MUCH !
 
  • #6
physicos said:
Ah ok , I got it ! Thank you SO MUCH !
So ... what is your answer http://physicsforums.bernhardtmediall.netdna-cdn.com/images/icons/icon5.gif
 
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Related to Understanding Work: Calculating Work in Different Scenarios

1. What is work?

Work is defined as the application of force over a distance. In scientific terms, it is the product of force and displacement.

2. How is work calculated?

Work is calculated by multiplying the force applied to an object by the distance the object moves in the direction of the force. This can be represented by the equation W = F x d.

3. What is the unit of measurement for work?

The unit of measurement for work is the joule (J). One joule is equal to the work done when a force of one newton is applied over a distance of one meter.

4. How is work calculated in different scenarios?

In different scenarios, the calculation of work may vary depending on the type of force and the direction of motion. For example, in the case of a constant force applied in the same direction as motion, work can be calculated using the equation W = F x d. In the case of a varying force, the work can be calculated by finding the area under the force-distance graph.

5. How does work relate to energy?

Work and energy are closely related concepts. Work is the transfer of energy from one object to another, or the conversion of energy from one form to another. So, any work done results in a change in the energy of the system.

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