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Grade 11Mechanics

A cord is used to lower vertically a block of mass M a distance d at a constant downward acceleration of g/4. (a) Find the work done by the cord on the block. (b) Find the work done by the force of gravity.
in the answer for this question we have found out the work done by the tension which is negativ. sholdn’t the work done by chord be positive?

Profile image of arsh
6 Years agoGrade 11
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1 Answer

Profile image of Vikas TU
6 Years ago
Check the net force on the object and then write the equation of motion.
Tension and gravity are working on the object and motion is in direction of gravity. 
Hence the equation of motion is,
Mg-T= ma. -(1)
As the acceleration of the object is given as he as the acceleration of the object is given as G divided g divided by 4.
T=3mg/4(A) 
work done =force×displacement
As we know that displacement is in opposite direction of force.
Hence workdone is (-ve).
W=-f.dW=-(3/4)×Mg×d(B) 
now work done by gravity is in direction of displacement hence it is positive.
W=force(of gravity)×displacement W=Mgd