Final answer:
The work done by the string in lowering the body is -1/4 Mgh. The work done by the string while lowering the body can be found using the formula: "Work equals force multiplied by distance."
Step-by-step explanation:
The work done by the string in lowering the body can be calculated using the equation:
W = Fd
Where:
W is the work done,
F is the force applied by the string,
d is the distance through which the body is lowered.
Given that the body is lowered at a constant acceleration of (g/4), the force applied by the string can be calculated using Newton's second law (F = ma).
Since the body is being lowered, the force applied by the string is opposite to the gravitational force acting on the body. Therefore, F = -mg.
The distance through which the body is lowered is given as h.
Substituting the values into the equation W = Fd, we get:
W = -mg × h
Since g is the acceleration due to gravity, which is approximately 9.8 m/s², the work done by the string can be written as:
W = -mg
Therefore, the correct option is d. -1/4 Mgh.