Question

How much work does the moon do in stopping the asteroid if neither the moon nor the asteroid heats up in the process? (Express your answer to three significant figures.)

A. Apply the work-energy principle to calculate the work done.
B. Discuss the role of the moon in asteroid motion.
C. Analyze the conservation of energy in the given scenario.
D. Evaluate the factors influencing the work done.

Answer 1

The work done by the moon in stopping the asteroid can be calculated using the work-energy principle. The moon's role in asteroid motion involves changing its kinetic and potential energy. Factors such as the mass, velocity, and gravitational force influence the work done.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to the work-energy principle, the work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy. Since neither the moon nor the asteroid heats up in the process, the work done by the moon in stopping the asteroid is equal to the change in the asteroid's kinetic energy.

To calculate the work done, we can use the equation: Work = ΔKE = (1/2)mv^2, where m is the mass of the asteroid and v is its velocity.

To discuss the role of the moon in asteroid motion, we can analyze the conservation of energy in the given scenario. The moon acts as a gravitational force on the asteroid, which changes its kinetic energy and potential energy.

Factors influencing the work done include the mass and velocity of the asteroid, as well as the gravitational force exerted by the moon.