A worker raises a brick from the ground to the top of a scaffold that is 2 ,m high
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Work Energy and Power · Work Energy and Power
Problem
A worker raises a brick from the ground to the top of a scaffold that is 2\,m high. Two alternative methods are available. Method A: He pulls the brick straight up at constant speed. Method B: He slides the brick up a smooth plank of length 4\,m that rests against the scaffold, again at constant speed. Neglect friction everywhere.
(i) Define gravitational potential energy.
(ii) Explain, with reasons based on energy considerations, whether the amount of work the worker does on the brick is the same in Method A and Method B.