What is the work done by the gravitational force along different paths when an object is displaced?
Understand the Problem
The question is discussing the work done by the gravitational force along different paths when an object is displaced. It emphasizes how the work can be calculated based on the displacement direction relative to the gravitational force and provides equations for paths taken.
Answer
Work done is -mgh, path-independent.
The work done by gravitational force along any path is determined solely by the vertical displacement and is given by W = -mgh, indicating it is path-independent and only depends on the initial and final heights.
Answer for screen readers
The work done by gravitational force along any path is determined solely by the vertical displacement and is given by W = -mgh, indicating it is path-independent and only depends on the initial and final heights.
More Information
Gravitational force is a conservative force, meaning the work it does only depends on the start and end points—i.e., the change in height, not the path taken.
Tips
Avoid focusing on the horizontal components of displacement, as gravity does not perform work in horizontal motion.
Sources
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