A 2 kg block is lifted vertically by 3 meters. What is the work done by gravity on the block?

Study for the Praxis Physics Exam with interactive questions and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding of physics concepts. Prepare for your exam efficiently!

Multiple Choice

A 2 kg block is lifted vertically by 3 meters. What is the work done by gravity on the block?

Explanation:
Gravity does negative work when you lift an object upward, because the force of gravity points downward while the displacement is upward. The work is W = F · d = (m g) × 3 m with a minus sign since the force and displacement are opposite, giving W = - m g h = - (2 kg)(9.8 m/s^2)(3 m) = -58.8 J. This also reflects the increase in gravitational potential energy by 58.8 J when the block is raised, so gravity does an amount of work equal in magnitude and opposite in sign. Hence the work done by gravity is -58.8 J.

Gravity does negative work when you lift an object upward, because the force of gravity points downward while the displacement is upward. The work is W = F · d = (m g) × 3 m with a minus sign since the force and displacement are opposite, giving W = - m g h = - (2 kg)(9.8 m/s^2)(3 m) = -58.8 J. This also reflects the increase in gravitational potential energy by 58.8 J when the block is raised, so gravity does an amount of work equal in magnitude and opposite in sign. Hence the work done by gravity is -58.8 J.

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