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Three weightlifters were 1.5, 1.7, and 2 meters tall respectively. All three lifters raised an identical 75 kilogram mass above their heads. Which statement is correct?

1) The 1.5 m tall lifter did the most work
2) The 2 m tall lifter did the most work
3) The 1.7 m tall lifter did the most work
4) All three lifters did the same amount of work

User Ygautomo
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The tallest weightlifter did the most work because work in physics is calculated as force times distance, and he lifted the weight the highest distance.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the work done by the weightlifters who raised an identical 75 kilogram mass, it is important to recall the definition of work in a physics context. Work is defined as the force applied to an object times the distance over which the force is applied, expressed in the equation W = F * d. In this case, the force is the weight of the mass (force of gravity) and the distance is the height to which the object is raised.

Since the force (mass of 75 kg under gravity) is the same for all three lifters and work is independent of time, the only variable that affects the work done is the distance the weight is lifted. That distance corresponds to the height of each lifter since they raise the mass above their heads. Therefore, as the height differs for each lifter, the tallest weightlifter (2 meters tall) would have to lift the weight the greatest distance, and hence, he did the most work.

The correct statement is therefore: 2) The 2 m tall lifter did the most work.

User Ezra Free
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