PHYSICS · Multi-part · CBSE · Physics · Work and Energy · Work and Energy
Problem
Blocks A and B have masses 4kg and 6kg respectively. A staircase has steps each 0.25m high. Block A is placed on the 5th step from the bottom and Block B on the 3rd step. Take the floor as the zero level of gravitational potential energy.
(i) Calculate the gravitational potential energy of each block with respect to the floor. Use g=9.8m s−2.
(ii) Which block possesses greater gravitational potential energy and by how much?
(iii) The two blocks are now interchanged without any loss of energy. Determine the change in the total gravitational potential energy of the system consisting of the two blocks.
(iv) If each block were allowed to slide smoothly down to the floor without friction, briefly explain why the mechanical energy of that block would remain conserved during its motion.