Question

A small block of mass m is given an initial speed v0 up a ramp inclined at angle θ to the horizontal. It travels a distance d up the ramp and comes to rest. What is the work done by the gravitational force on the block as it moves up the ramp?

1) Positive
2) Negative
3) Zero
4) Cannot be determined

Answer 1

The work done by the gravitational force on the block as it moves up the ramp is positive.

Step-by-step explanation:

The work done by the gravitational force on the block as it moves up the ramp can be determined by calculating the change in gravitational potential energy. When an object is lifted straight up at constant speed, the work done is equal to the weight of the object multiplied by the distance it is lifted. In this case, the force needed to lift the object is equal to its weight, which is mg, where m is the mass of the block and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

So, the work done by the gravitational force is:

W = mgd

Since the weight points in the same direction as the net vertical displacement, the work done by the gravitational force is positive.