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Chapter Work

Physics Work

Work Done by Gravity-Path Independence

 5th March 2024 at 10:44am

Indeed, it's fascinating how gravity's work doesn't concern itself with the winding paths we take! Let's delve into this concept:

  1. Work Done by Gravity:

    • When an object is moved vertically against gravity (either lifted or lowered), the work done by gravity depends solely on the vertical height difference between the initial and final positions.
    • It doesn't matter whether we take a direct path or a zigzag route—the gravitational work remains the same.
  2. Path Independence:

    • This principle is known as path independence for gravitational work.
    • Whether we lift the block straight up or follow a convoluted path, the change in gravitational potential energy (and thus the work done) is determined purely by the vertical displacement.
  3. Illustration with the Block:

    • In Fig. 10.8, we have a block raised from position A to B using two different paths.
    • Let the height AB be denoted as (h).
    • Regardless of the specific paths taken, the work done by gravity in both situations is given by (W = mgh).

Remember, gravity doesn't fuss about the scenic route—it's all about that vertical height! 🌎🔍

Derive Potential Energy