An object is moved from point A to point B in Earth’s uniform gravitational field
PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
An object is moved from point A to point B in Earth’s uniform gravitational field. The vertical separation between the points is 3m. Path 1 is a straight vertical segment followed by a horizontal segment, while Path 2 is a long sloping ramp connecting the same points. Which statement about the work done by gravity for the displacement A → B is correct?
(a) The work done by gravity is greater along Path 2 than along Path 1, because the distance travelled is longer.
(b) The work done by gravity is zero along both paths, since gravity is perpendicular to the horizontal ground on average.
(c) The work done by gravity is the same along both paths.
(d) The information given is insufficient; without knowing the object’s mass the work done cannot be compared.