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7 Work, Energy
and Power
JEE Main MILESTONE
< Work < Potential Energy of a Spring
< Energy < Conservation of Mechanical Energy
< Work-Energy Theorem < Conservative and Non-Conservative Forces
< Power

7.1 Work
The scientific meaning of work is transfer of energy by mechanical means. Work is
said to be done by a force, when a body a displaced actually through some
distance in the direction of applied force. The SI unit work is joule (J) and in CGS is
erg.
1 joule (J) = 107 erg
The terms work, energy and power
Work Done by a Constant Force are frequently used in everyday
Let us first consider the simple case of a constant force F acting on a body. Further, language. In physics, however the
let us also assume that the body moves in a straight line; in the direction of force. In word ‘work’ converse a definite
this case, we define the work done by the force on the body as the product of the and precise meaning. ‘Energy’ is
magnitude of the force F and the distance S through which the body moves. our capacity to do work. In
F physics, the term energy is related
to work. The word ‘power’ is used
S
in everyday life with different
That is, the work W is given by shades of meaning. In boxing, we
W = F ×S talk of powerful punches. These
On the other hand, in a situation when the constant force does not act along the are delivered at a great speed. This
same direction as the displacement of the body, the component of force F along the shade of meaning is close to the
displacement S is effective in doing work. meaning of the word power used
F in physics.
θ

Thus, in this case, work done by a constant force F is given by

W = (component of force along the displacement) ´ (displacement)
or W = (F cos q) (S )
or W = F × S (from the definition of dot product)
So, work done is a scalar or dot product of F and S.
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Work, Energy and Power 231

Regarding work it is worth noting that Sample Problem 1 A body of mass 2 kg initially at rest
Work can be positive, negative or even zero also, depending moves under the action of an applied horizontal force of 7 N on
on the angle (q) between the force vector F and a table with coefficient of kinetic friction = 0.1. The work done
displacement vector S. Work done by a force is zero when by applied force in 10 s will be equal to
q = 90°, it is positive when q < 90° and negative when (a) 800 J (b) 825 J
q > 90°. For example, when a person lifts a body, the work (c) 882 J (c) 856 J
done by the lifting force is positive (as q = 0° ) but work Interpret (c) Here, m = 2 kg, u = 0 ,F = 7 N, m = 0.1, t = 10 s
done by the force of gravity is negative (as q = 160° ).
Acceleration produced by applied force,
Similarly, work done by centripetal force is always zero (as
F 7
q = 90° ). a1 = = = 3.5 ms-2
m 2
Note Positive work means that force or its component is parallel to Force of friction, f = mR = mmg
displacement while negative work means that force or its component is = 0.1 ´ 2 ´ 9.8 = 1.96 N
opposite to displacement. Retardation produced by friction
-f 1.96
a2 = =- = -0.98 ms-2
Work Done by a Variable Force m 2
Let us assume that a particle is moving along path A-B Net acceleration with which body moves,
(as shown in figure) w.r.t. a particular frame of reference a = a1 + a2 = 3.5 - 0.98 = 2.52 ms-2
under the action of force F.
Distance moved by the body in 10 s.
Y 1 1
(x1, y1, z1) Apply, s = ut + at 2 = 0 + ´ 2.52 ´ 10 2 = 126 m
ds 2 2
A
\Work done by the applied force
θ
s
F B = F ´ s = 7 ´ 126 = 882 J
(x2, y2, z2)
O X Sample Problem 2 A woman pushes a trunk on a railway
platform which has a rough surface. She applies a force of
Work done by the force on the particle is given by 100 N over a distance of 10 m. Thereafter, she gets
B
WA® B = ò F × ds progressively tired and her applied force reduces linealry with
A
distance to 50 N. The total distance through which the trunk
Here, F × ds is to be integrated along the path, the particle has been moved is 20 m. Frictional force is 50 N versus
follows displacement. The work done by the two forces over 20 m is
B (a) –25 J (b) –50 J (c) –100 J (d) –1000 J
The vector integral ò F × ds is equivalent to
A
Interpret (d) The plot of the applied force is as shown.
x2 y2 z2
WA® B = ò Fxdx + ò Fy dy + ò Fz dz At x = 20 m, F = (50 N) ( ¹ 0)
x1 y1 z1
Frictional force, f = 50 N. It opposes motion and acts in a direction
If a number of forces act on a body or particle, then
opposite to F.
W = W1 + W2 + W3 +¼

or W = ò F1 × ds + ò F2 × ds+¼ 100
B F C

Force E
W = ò (F1 + F2 +¼ ) × ds D
(N) A
x
10 m 20 m
or W = ò FR × ds (as FR = SF )
f = –50
H
G
Work done in displacing a particle under the action of a
number of forces is equal to the work done by the The work done by the woman is WF ® area of the rectangle ABCD +
resultant force. Further, if the body is in equilibrium (static area of trapezium CEID.
or dynamic) W = SW = 0 as for equilibrium FR = 0. Here, 1
WF = 100 ´ 10 + (100 + 50) ´ 10 = 1000 + 750 = 1750 J
work done by individual forces may or may not be zero, 2
but work done by some forces is positive while by others it Work done by the frictional force is
is negative, and positive work is equal to negative work, so WF = ( -50) ´ 20 = -1000 J
the net work becomes zero. The area on the negative side of the force axis has a negative sign.
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Sample Problem 3 A cyclist comes to a skidding stop in Sample Problem 6 A force F = (2 + x) acts on a particle in
10 m. During this process, the force on the cycle due to the road x-direction where F is in newton and x in metre. The work done
is 200 N and is directly opposed to the motion. Work done by by this force during a displacement from x = 1.0 m to x = 2.0 m is
the road on the cycle is (a) 2 J (b) 3.5 J
(a) –2000 J (b) 4000 J (c) 4.5 J (d) None of these
(c) – 8000 J (d) 10000 J
Interpret (b) The work done in small displacement from x to
Interpret (a) Work done on the cycle by the road is the work x + dx is
done by the stopping (frictional) force on the cycle due to the road. dW = Fdx = (2 + x) dx
2 2 2 2
The stopping force and the displacement make an angle of 180° Hence, W= ò1 dW = ò1 (2 + x) dx = ò1 2 dx + ò1 xdx
(p rad) with each other. Thus, work done by the road is 2
é x2 ù
W = Fd cos q = ê2x + ú = 3.5 J
ë 2 û1
= 200 ´ 10 ´ cos p
= - 2000 J
Work Depends on the Frame of
Note It is the work that brings the cycle to a halt in accordance with Reference
work-energy theorem.
Considering an example, if a man is pushing a box
Sample Problem 4 A drop of mass 1 g falling from a inside a moving train, the work done in the frame of
height 1.00 km. It hits the ground with a speed of 50 ms -1. Work train will be F × s. While in the frame of earth will be
done by the gravitational force is F × (s + s0 ) where s0 is the displacement of the train
(a) 50 J (b) 10 J relative to the ground.
(c) 15 J (d) 20 J Work done by friction may be zero, positive or negative
depending upon the situation. When force applied on a
Interpret (b) The change is kinetic energy of the drop is
body is insufficient to overcome the friction, work done
1
mv 2 - 0
DK = by the friction force is zero. When this force is large
2
enough to overcome friction then work done by the
1
= ´ 10 -3 ´ 50 ´ 50 = 1.25 J friction force is negative.
2
Let us consider the situation in which there is a
where, we have assumed that the drop is initially at rest.
horizontal rough conveyer belt on which a block and a
Assuming that g is a constant with a value 10 m/ s2, the work done man is standing, is accelerating along the horizontal
by the gravitational force is direction. Block is not slipping on the belt.
Wg = mgh = 10 -3 ´ 10 ´ 10 3 = 10 J The following conclusions can be drawn from above.
(a) In this case work done by friction (between belt and
Sample Problem 5 The angle between force the block) is zero as observed by the man on conveyor
F = (3$i + 4$j - 5 k$ ) unit and displacement d = (5 i$ + 4$j - 3 k$ ) belt.
(b) Work done by friction (between trolley and the block)
unit is
-1 -1 is positive as observed by an observer on the ground.
(a) – cos (0.32) (b) sin (0.31)
(c) Work done by friction is negative as observed by
(c) tan -1 (0.32) (d) cosec-1 (0.32)
observer who is moving along the direction of motion
Interpret (a) As, F × d = Fxd x + Fyd y + Fzd z of conveyor belt with higher speed.

= 3 (5) + 4 ( 4) + ( -5) (3)

Sample Problem 7 Over a horizontal plank a small block
= 16 unit of mass m is lying at rest. Now plank is moved with constant
Hence, F × d = Fd cos q = 16 unit acceleration as such that there is no relative motion between
Now, F × F = F 2 = Fx2 + Fy2 + Fz2 block and plank. Find the work done
by friction of plank on block in first t m
= 9 + 16 + 25 = 50 unit
seconds. a
and d × d = d 2 = d x2 + d y2 + d z2 (i) in ground frame
= 25 + 16 + 9 = 50 unit (ii) in plank frame
16 16 1 1
\ cos q = = = 0.32 (a) ma2t 2,zero (b) zero, ma2t 2
50 50 50 2 2
1 1
q = cos-1 (0.32) (c) zero, zero (d) ma2t 2, ma2t 2
2 2
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Work, Energy and Power 233

Interpret (a) by Newton’s second law of motion,

(i) In ground frame, F = ma
f
Friction force acting on the block f = ma v2 = 2 as (by third equation of motion)
Displacement in first t second or s = v2 / 2 a
1
s = at 2 Work done by the constant force = Fs
2
æ v2 ö 1
1
Work done = F × s = f æç at 2 ö÷ or W = ma ç ÷ = mv2
è2 ø è 2a ø 2
1 2 1
= ma × at = ma 2t 2 But the kinetic energy of the body is equivalent to the work
2 2
done in giving the body this velocity.
F(= ma) 1
Hence, KE = mv2
f 2
(ii) In plank frame, Some practical units of energy and their relation with SI
f = ma
But displacement = 0 unit of energy (joule) are
(because there is no relative motion between plank and (i) 1 cal = 4.2 J
block) . ´ 106 J
(ii) 1 kilowatt hour (kWh) = 36
Hence, work done on the block in the plank frame is zero.
Sample Problem 8 A 120 g mass has a velocity at
v = (2 $i + 5 $j) ms-1 a certain instant, KE of the body at that
7.2 Energy instant is
Capacity of a body to do work is called its energy. Like (a) 3.0 J (b) 1.74 J (c) 4.48 J (d) 5.84 J
work, energy is a scalar quantity. The units of Interpret (b) Here, m = 120 g = 0.12 kg,
measurement of energy are same as the units of work. In
v = (2$i + 5$j) ms-1
SI, the unit of energy of joule (J) and is CGS, the unit of
energy is erg. There are so many types of energy e. g. , v =|v|= 2 2 + 52 = 29 ms-1
kinetic, potential, electrostatic, magnetic, geothermal, 1 1
\ KE = mv 2 = ´ 0.12 ´ 29 = 1.74 J
elastic, solar etc. In this chapter, we will discuss only 2 2
mechanical energy. Mechanical, energy consists of kinetic
energy and potential energy. Sample Problem 9 A bob of mass m is suspended by a
light string of length L. It is imparted a horizontal velocity v0 at
ME = KE + PE
the lowest point A, such that it completes a semicircular
Note KE is always positive but PE may be positive or negative. Infact, trajectory in the vertical plane with the string becoming slack
when forces involved are repulsive, PE is positive and when forces only on reaching the topmost point C. The ratio of the kinetic
involved are attractive, PE is negative. æK ö
energies ç B ÷ at B and C is
è KC ø
Kinetic Energy (a) 3 : 1 (b) 1 : 3 (c) 5 : 2 (d) 2 : 5
Kinetic energy (KE) is the capacity of a body to do work by Interpret (a) There are two external C
virtue of its motion. The faster the object moves, the greater forces on the bob, gravity and tension (T) mg
is the kinetic energy. When the object is stationary, its in the string. The latter does not work,
since the displacement of the bob is Tc
kinetic energy is zero.
always normal to the string. The potential B
An object of mass m moving in a reference frame with energy of the bob is thus associate with
velocity v (well below the velocity of light) is said to have the gravitational force only. The total L TA
kinetic energy given by mechanical energy of the system is
1 é1 1 2ù
conserved. We take the potential energy A v0
KE = mv2 2
êë 2 mv = 2 m (| v | ) úû of the system to be zero at the lowest
2 mg
point A. Thus at A
Let us consider a constant force F which when acting on a
1
mass at rest, produces velocity v. If on reaching this E= mv 02
2
velocity, the particle has attained an acceleration a and
mv 02
displacement s, then TA - mg = (Newton’s second law)
L
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where, TA is the tension in the string at A. At the highest point C, Note 18 kmh -1 has been converted to 5 ms -1. At maximum
the string slackers, as the tension in the string (Tc ) becomes zero. compression x m , the potential energy V of the spring is equal to the
Thus, at C kinetic energy K of the moving car from the principle of conservation of
1 mechanical energy.
E = mv c2 + 2 mgL
2
mv c2 Sample Problem 11 A block of mass m = 1kg moving on a
mg = (Newton’s second law) horizontal surface with speed v = 2 ms-1 enters a rough patch
L
where, v c is the speed at C. ranging from x = 0.10 m to x = 2.01m. The retarding force Fr on
5 the block in this range inversely proportional to x over this
E=
mgL range
2
k
Equating this to the energy at A Fr = - for 0.1 < x < 2.01 m
x
5 m
mgL = v 02 =0 for x < 0.1 m and x > 2.01 m
2 2
where, k = 0.5 J. The final kinetic energy of the block as it crosses
v 0 = 5 gL
this patch is
mv c2 (a) 5 J (b) 50 J
Also from equation, mg = , we have
L (c) 0.5 J (d) 500 J
v c = gL
Interpret (c) If Ki and Kf are initial and final kinetic energies
At B, the energy is corresponding to xi and xf , then
1
E=mvB2 + mgL Kf - Ki = ò
xf
F dx
2 xi
Equating this to the energy at A and employing the equation 2.01 ( -k)
v 02 = 5 gL, we have Kf = Ki + ò dx
0.1 x
1 1 5
mvB2 + mgL = mv 02 = mgL 1
2.01
2 2 2 Kf = mvi2 - k ln ( x)
2 0.1
\ vB = 3 gL
The ratio of the kinetic energies at B and C is = 2 - 0.5 ln (20.1)
1 = 2 - 1.5 = 0.5 J
mvB2
KB 2 3
= =
KC 1 mv 2 1 Sample Problem 12 In a ballistic demonstration, a police
2
C
officer fires a bullet of mass 50 g with a speed 200 ms -1 on soft
plywood of thickness 2.00 cm. The bullet emerges with only
Note At point C, the string becomes slack and the velocity of the bob is 10% of its initial kinetic energy. The emergent speed of the
horizontal and to the left. If the connecting string is cut at this instant, the bullet is
bob will execute a projectile motion with horizontal projection in to a rock
(a) 40 ms -1 (b) 63.2 ms -1
kicked horizontally from the edge of a cliff. Otherwise the bob will
continue on its circular path and complete the revolution. (c) 52.3 ms -1 (d) 20 ms -1
Interpret (b) The initial kinetic energy of the bullet is
Sample Problem 10 A car of mass 1000 kg moving with a mv 2
speed 18 km/h on a smooth road and colliding with = 1000 J
2
a horizontally mounted spring of spring constant
6.25 ´ 103 Nm -1. The maximum compression of the spring is It has a final kinetic energy of 0.1 ´ 1000 = 100 J
(a) 1 m (b) 2 m If v f is the emergent speed of the bullet
(c) 3 m (d) 4 m 1
mv f2 = 100 J
2
Interpret (b) At maximum compression, the kinetic energy of
the car is converted entirely into the potential energy of the spring. 2 ´ 100
Þ vf =
0.5
The kinetic energy of the moving car is
1 1 = 63.2 ms–1
K = mv 2 = ´ 10 3 ´ 5 ´ 5
2 2
Note The speed is reduced by approximately 68%.
K = 1.25 ´ 10 4 J
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Work, Energy and Power 235

Potential Energy The change in gravitational potential energy of particle-

earth system when the particle is at a certain height y is
Potential energy (PE) of a body is the energy stored in the
U - U i = mg (y - y1 )
system of particles in the body by virtue of their position of
configuration in a field. Here, we take U i to be the gravitational potential energy of
the system when it is in a reference configuration in which
The concept of PE exists only for conservative forces, like
the particle is at a reference point yi . Usually, we take
gravitational forces, electrical forces, magnetic forces etc.
U i = 0 and y1 = 0. Doing these changes, we obtain
We cannot define potential energy corresponding to
non-conservative forces like frictional forces. U (y ) = mgy

The change in potential energy (dU ) of a system 3. Electric potential energy

corresponding to a conservative force is
The electric potential energy of two point charges q1 and q2
æ dU ö
dU = - F × ds = - dW çQ F = - ÷ separated by a distance r in vacuum is given by
è ds ø
1 q1q2
Uf s2 U= ×
4pe 0
òU
i
dU = - ò
s1
F × ds r
1 N-m2
or U f - U i = -ò
s2
F × ds Here, = 9.1 ´ 109 = constant
s1 4pe 0 C2

We generally choose the reference point at infinity and Note Work done by a non-conservative force is the sum of change in
assume potential energy to be zero at that point potential energy and change in kinetic energy or work done by a
i. e. , s1 = ¥ and U i = 0 non-conservative force equals the change in value of total mechanical
s energy. Thus,
then U f = - ò F × ds = - W
¥
æ ö æ Total initial ö
Wnet = ç Total final ÷-ç ÷
Thus, potential energy of a body is negative of work done èmechanical energy ø èmechanical energy ø
by the conservative forces in bringing it from infinity to the
Change in potential energy is equal to the negative of work done by the
present position. conservative force ( DU = - DW ). If work done by the conservative force is
Different types of potential energy are given below negative, change in potential energy will be positive and vice-versa. This
can be understood by a simple example. Suppose a ball is taken from the
ground to some height, work done by gravity is negative, i.e., change in
1. Elastic potential energy potential energy should increase or potential energy of the ball will
This type of energy is associated with the state of increase. Which happens so.
compression or extension of an elastic (spring like) object.
If you compress or extend a spring, you do work to change
the relative locations of the coils within the spring. This Ball
work is an increase in the elastic potential energy of the Ground
spring. DWgravity = - ve
The elastic potential energy of the spring-block system is \ DU = + ve (Q DU = - DW )
1 or U f - U i = + ve
U = kx 2 dU
2 F =- , i .e ., conservative forces always act in a
dr
where, k is the spring constant and x is the compression direction where potential energy of the system F
or expansion in spring. If a spring is stretched from initial decreases. This can also be shown in figure. If a ball
position x1 to final position x2, then increase in elastic is dropped from a certain height, the force on it (its
potential energy weight) acts in a direction in which its potential
1 energy decreases.
= k(x22 - x12 )
2
Sample Problem 13 When a body is projected vertically
up, its PE is twice its KE , when it is at a height h above the
2. Gravitational potential energy
ground. At what height will its KE be twice the KE?
This type of energy is associated with the state of h
(a) 2h (b)
separation between objects, which attract one another via 3
the gravitational force. h h
(c) (d)
2 4
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Interpret (c) Total energy, Note This theorem can be applied to non-inertial frames also. In a
E1 = PE+KE non-inertial frame, it can be written as
1 3 3 Work done by all the forces (including the pseudo forces) = change in
= PE+ PE = PE = mgh kinetic energy in non-inertial frame.
2 2 2
E 2 = PE+KE = PE+2PE+3PE = 3 mgh'
Sample Problem 15 A particle of mass 0.5 kg travels in a
As, E 2 = E1
3 h straight line with velocity v = ax3/ 2 , where a = 5m -1/ 2s-1 . The
3mgh'= mgh Þ h' = work done by the net force during its displacement from x = 0 to
2 2
x = 2 m is
Sample Problem 14 The potential energy of diatomic (a) 50 J (b) 45 J
molecule is given by (c) 25 J (c) None of these
A B
U= - Interpret (a) Here, m = 0.5 kg,
r12 r 6
where, r is the distance between the atoms that make up the v = ax3 / 2, a = 5 m–1/2 s-1, W = ?
molecule and A and B are positive constants. Find the Initial velocity, at x = 0, v1 = a ´ 0 = 0
equilibrium separation between the atoms. Final velocity, at x = 2, v 2 = 5 ´ 23 / 2
1/ 6 1/ 6
é Aù é 2A ù Work done = increase in KE
(a) s = ê ú (b) s = ê ú
ë Bû ë Bû =
1
m(v 22 - v12)
1/5 1/5 2
é Bù é 2B ù
(c) s = ê ú (d) s = ê ú 1
ë Aû ë Aû W= ´ 0.5 [(5 ´ 23 / 2) 2 - 0 ] = 50 J
2
Interpret (b) The interaction force between the atoms is
given by Sample Problem 16 A ball of mass m is thrown in air with
dU -12 A 6B
F=- = - éê 13 + 7 ùú speed v1 from a height h and it is caught at a height h2 > h1 when
ds ë s s û
its speed becomes v2. Find the work done on the ball by air
1/ 6
é 2A ù resistance.
At equilibrium F = 0, therefore s = ê ú
ë Bû
Interpret Work done on the ball by gravity is
Wg = - mg(h2 - h1)
Work done on the ball by air resistance is Wair = ?
7.3 Work-Energy Theorem Q Wg + Wair = DKE
This theorem is a very important tool that relates the work 1
Þ -mg (h2 - h1) + Wair = m (v 22 - v12)
to kinetic energy. 2
Accordingly, work done by all the forces (conservative or 1
Þ Wair = mg (h2 - h1) + m (v 22 - v12)
non-conservative, external or internal) acting on a particle 2
or an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy of
the particle. Thus, we can write
D ==- WKKK f
7.4 Power
We can also write, The time rate of doing work is called power. If an external
K f = Ki + W
force is applied to an object (which we assume as a
Which says that particle), and if the work done by this force is DW in the
æ Kinetic energy after ö time interval Dt, then the average power during this
ç ÷
è the net work is doneø interval is defined as
æ Kinetic energy beforeö æ The net ö DW
P=
=ç ÷+ç ÷ Dt
è the net work done ø è work doneø
The work done on the object contributes to increasing the
These statements are known traditionally as the energy of the object. The general definition of power is the
work-kinetic energy theorem for particles. They hold for time rate of energy transfer. The instantaneous power is
both positive and negative works. If the net work done on the limiting value of the average power as Dt approaches
a particle is positive, then the particle’s kinetic energy zero.
increases by the amount of the work done. If the net work DW dW
done is negative, then the particle’s kinetic energy i.e., P = lim =
Dt ® 0 D t dt
decreases by the amount of the work.
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Work, Energy and Power 237

where we have represented the infinitesimal value of the Interpret (b) Force required to keep the belt moving = rate of
work done by dW (even though it is not a change and increase of horizontal momentum of sand = mass per second
therefore not differential) dm
´ velocity change = 2 ´ 0.1 = 0.2 N
dW ds é ds ù dt
P=
dt
=F
dt
= F×v ê as, dt = vú Power = Force ´ velocity
ë û
(a) Power is equal to the scalar product of force and = 0.2 ´ 0.1 = 0.02 W
velocity.
(b) Power is a scalar with dimensions [ML2T -3]. The SI unit
of power is Js–1 and is called watt (W) (after James Watt)
7.5 Potential Energy of a Spring
Practical unit of power is horse power (HP)
Consider the situation shown in figure. One end of a
1 HP = 746 W spring is attached to a fixed vertical support and the other
Work end to a block which can move on a horizontal table. Let
(c) Since, Power = , any unit of power multiplied by a
Time x = 0denote the position of the block, when the spring is in
unit of time gives unit of work (or energy), i. e., its natural length. We shall calculate the work done on the
kilowatt-hour or watt-day are units of work or energy block by the spring force as the block moves from x = 0 to
but not of power. x = x1
1 kWh = 103 ´ Js–1 ´ (60 ´ 60 s) = 3.6 ´ 106 J
(d) The slope of work-time curve gives the instantaneous x=0 x = x1
dW
power as P = = tan q [from Fig. (a)] while the area F
dt
dW A A
under P-t curve gives the work done. Since, P = .
dt We have to find the work done during a small interval in
which means W = ò Pdt = area under P-t curve [as shown which the block moves from x to x + dx. The force in this
interval is kx and the displacement is dx. The restoring
in Fig. (b)].
force and displacement are opposite in direction.
Work Power
So, dW = F × ds = | F | | ds| cos 180°
= - | F | | ds| = - kxdx
during this interval. The total work done as the block is
displaced from x = 0 to x = x1 is
θ x
Time dt Time x1 é 1 ù 1
(a) (b) W =ò - kxdx = ê - kx 2 ú
0 ë 2 û0
1 2
Sample Problem 17 An advertisement claims that a =- kx1
2
certain 1200 kg car can accelerate from rest to a speed of
25 ms–1 in a time of 8 s. What average power must the motor If the block moves from x = x1 to x = x2, the limits of
produce to cause this acceleration? (ignore friction) integration are x1 and x2 and the work done is
(a) 45 kW (b) 45.9 kW æ1 1 ö
W = ç kx12 - kx22 ÷ = potential energy
(c) 46.9 kW (d) None of these è2 2 ø
Interpret (c) The work done in accelerating the car is given by
1 1 Note If the block is displaced from x1 to x 2 and brought back to x = x1
W = DK = m(v f2 - v12) = (1200) [(25) 2 - 02 ]
2 2 the work done by the spring force is zero. The work done during the return
journey is negative of the work during the onward journey. The net work
or W = 375 kJ
done by the spring force in a round trip is zero.
W 375
Power = = = 46.9 kW
t 8 Sample Problem 19 A block of mass m has a velocity v0
when it just touches a spring. The block moves through a
Sample Problem 18 Sand drops vertically at the rate of distance l before it stops. The spring constant of spring is k, what
2 kgs–1 on to a conveyor belt moving horizontally with a is the work done on it by the spring force?
velocity of 0.1 ms–1. The extra power needed to keep the belt kl 2 3kl 2
moving is (a) (b)
2 2
(a) 0.05 W (b) 0.02 W
kl 2 3kl 2
(c) 0.06 W (c) 0.03 W (c) - (d) -
2 2
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238 JEE Main Physics

Interpret (c) Here, the speed of both the blocks are same. Let the speed is v ms–1.
v0 k Since block of 2 kg is coming down hence the gravitational
m potential energy is decreasing while the gravitational potential
energy of 1 kg block is increasing.
The net force acting on the block by the spring is equal to So, kinetic energy of both the blocks will increase.
|Fspring| = kx 1 1
Hence, mBgh = mA gh + mAv 2 + mBv 2
2 2
where, x is the compression in the spring.
1 1
Work done by the spring ò Fspring. ds or 2 ´ 10 ´ 1 = 1 ´ 10 ´ 1 + ´ 1´ v 2 + ´ 2v 2
2 2
= ò Fspring | ds| cos180° or 20 = 10 + 0.5 v 2 + v 2

l -kl 2 or 1.5v 2 = 10
= -ò kxdx = 10
0 2 \ v2 = = 6.67
15
.
or v = 2.58 ms–1
7.6 Conservation of
Sample Problem 21 In the above problem work done by
Mechanical Energy friction in 10 s is equal to
(a) –236.8 J (b) –245.2 J
The mechanical energy E of a system is the sum of its
(c) –246.9 J (d) 246 J
kinetic energy K and its potential energy U.
E = K +U Interpret (c) Work done by the force of friction
When the forces acting on the system are conservative in Wf = f ´ s = - 1.96 ´ 126
nature, the mechanical energy of the system remains = –246.9 J
constant,
K + U = constant
Examples of Conservation of Mechanical
Þ DK + DU = 0
Energy
There are physical situations, where one or more non-
conservative force act on the system but net work done by 1. Object thrown vertically upwards
them is zero, then too the mechanical energy of the system
remains constant. Energy at the lowest point (at A) is only kinetic energy h = 0,
in the middle, energy is both kinetic and potential energy
If S Wnet = 0
(as h = h1 ) and at the highest point, energy is only potential.
Mechanical energy, E = constant. ( as v = 0)
Note If only conservative forces are acting on a system of particles and C v=0
work done by any other external force is zero, then mechanical energy of
the system will remain conserved. In this case, some fraction of
mechanical energy will be decreasing while the other fraction will
increase.
h B v1

Sample Problem 20 In the arrangement

h1
shown in figure, string is light and inextensible
and friction is absent everywhere.
A v
The speed of both the blocks after the block A
has ascend a height of 1 m will be
(a) 2 ms–1 (b) 2.58 ms–1 \ E = K A = K B + UB = UC
(c) 3 ms–1 (c) 3.58 ms–1 1
A B or E = mv2
Given that, mA = 1 kg and 2 kg. 2
1
Interpret (b) Since, there is no friction anywhere, so = mv12 + mgh = mgh
mechanical energy will be conserved. 2
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Work, Energy and Power 239

2. Freely falling object (a) KC = U A

At the maximum height, total energy is 1
C UC =0 or mvC2 = mgh = mg (1 - cos q1 )
in the form of potential energy. In the 2
middle, total energy is in the form of \ vC = vmax = 2 g (1 - cos q1 )
both kinetic and potential energy. At the (b) U B + KB = U A
lowest point, total energy is in the form B
h v1 or KB = U A - U B = mg (h1 - h2 )
of kinetic energy. 1
or mvB2 = mgl (cos q1 - cos q2 )
\ E = UC = K B + UB = K A h1 2
or \ vB = 2 gl (cos q1 - cos q2 )
1 1 v
E = mgh = mv12 + mgh1 = mv2 A (c) If pendulum of length l is released from horizontal
2 2
position as shown in adjacent figure, then
U A = KB
3. Projectile motion
O
At the highest point, potential energy is maximum and A
2 2
u sin q 1
U H = mgh = mg = mu2 sin2 q
2g 2 l

At the highest point, the kinetic energy will be minimum

but not zero because at the highest point only vertical
component of velocity is zero. B
u
v
1
or mgl = mvB2
H 2
θ \ vB = vmean = 2 gl

1 1
KH = mu2x = mu2 cos2 q
2 2
1
Check Point
Hence, EH = U H + K H = mu2 = Einitial
2 1. Does kinetic energy depend on the direction of motion
Hence, in projectile motion, mechanical energy is involved? Can it be negative? Does it depend on frame of
reference.
conserved.
2. Can kinetic energy of a system be increased or decreased
4. Oscillator without applying any external force on the system?
3. Out of joule, kilowatt, calorie and electron volt, which one is
O
A not the unit of energy?
θ2 E=U 4. The protons are brought towards each other. Will the potential
energy of the systemθdecrease
1
or increase? If a proton and an
l Extreme position electron are brought closer, then?
h1
5. A pump motor is used to deliver water at a certain rate from a
E=U+K given pipe. To obtain n times water from the same pipe in the
h2 B
C
same time by what amount (a) the force and (b) power of
E=K
motor should be increased?

Equilibrium or mean position

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240 JEE Main Physics

Fig. (a) Let W1, W2, W3 denote the amounts of work done
7.7 Conservative and moving a body from A to B along three different paths, 1, 2,
Non-Conservative Forces 3 respectively. If the force is non-conservative
W1 ¹ W2 ¹ W3.
Conservative Forces 1

A force is said to be conservative, if work done by or

A B
against the force in moving a body depends only on the
initial and final positions of the body and not the nature of
2
path followed between the final and initial positions. This Fig. (b)
means, work done by or against a conservative force is
moving a body over any path between fixed initial and Fig. (b) Shown that a particle moving a closed path.
final positions will be the same. A ® 1, B ® 2 ® A. If W1 is work done in moving the particle
For example, gravitational force, electrostatic force etc., from A ® 1 ® B and W2 is work done in moving the
are conservative forces. particle from B ® 2 ® A, then for a non-conservative force
| W1 | ¹ | W2 |.
In case of gravitational force, if we take work done in
moving the body from A to B, against gravity as negative, \ Net work done along the closed path, A ® B ® A is not
the work done in moving the body from B to A, by gravity zero.
has to be taken as positive, i. e. , ò F × ds ¹ 0
i. e. , WAB = - WBA \ WAB + WBA = 0
In fact, work done is taking the body from A to B is speed in Sample Problem 22 A particle is taken from point A to
the body in the form of PE. This energy which is spent in point B via the path ACB and then come back to point A via the
moving body from B to A. Thus, over the round trip path BDA. What is the work done by gravity on the body over
( A ® B ® A), net work done is zero. this closed path, if the motion of the particle is in the vertical
plane?
Non-Conservative Forces (a) mgh (b) –mgh
1
A force is said to be non-conservative, if work done by or (c) mgh (d) zero
2
against the force in moving a body from one position to
another, depends on the path followed between these two Interpret (d) Here, displacement of the particle is AB, gravity is
acting vertically downwards. The vertical component of AB is h
positions.
upwards. Hence,
For example, force of friction and viscous force are W( ACB) = -mgh
non-conservative forces.
For the path BDA, component of the displacement acting along
2 vertical direction is h (downward)
1 In this case, W(BDA ) = mgh
A B
ACB BDA Total work done W +W =0
Fig. (a)
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WORKED OUT
Examples
Example 1 A uniform rope of linear density d and length l is Example 5 The work done in time t on a body of mass m
hanging from the edge of a table. The work done in pulling the which is accelerated from rest to a speed v in time t1 as a
rope on the table is function of time t is given by
dgl dgl 2 1 v 2 v 2
(a) (b) (c) dgl 2 (d) d 2gl (a) m t (b) m t
2 2 2 t1 t1
2
Solution Here, mass of rope m = l ´ d 1 æ mv ö 2 1 v2 2
(c) ç ÷ t (d) m t
2 è t1 ø 2 t12
For pulling the rope on the table,
distance of centre of gravity moved = l /2
Solution We know, v = u + at ,v = 0 + at1
l l dgl 2
\Work done = F ´ = ldg ´ = v
2 2 2 or a=
t1
Example 2 A force of (10 $i - 3$j + 6 k$ ) N acts on a body of From second law of motion
v
5 kg and displaces it from A(6 i$ - 5 $j + 3k$ ) m to F = ma = m
t1
B(10 i - 2 $j + 7k$ ) m. The work done is
$ 1 2
Distance travelled from relation s = ut + at
(a) zero (b) 55 J (c) 100 J (d) 221 J 2
1 vt 2 vt 2
Solution Given force F = (10 $i - 3$j + 6k$ ) N, s =0 + =
2 t1 2t1
m = 5 kg mv vt 2 1 mv 2t 2
AB = (10 $i - 2$j + 7k$ ) - (6$i - 5$j + 3k$ ) W =F ´ s ´ ´ =
t1 2t1 2 t12
= ( 4$i - 3$j + 4k$ )
W = F. s = F . AB Example 6 A uniform force of 4 N acts on a body of mass
= (10 $i - 3$j + 6k$ ) × ( 4$i - 3$j + 4 k$ ) 40 kg for a distance of 2.0 m. The kinetic energy acquired by
the body is
= 40 - 9 + 24 = 55 J
(a) 4 ´ 2 J (b) 4 ´ 4 ´ 2 J
Example 3 A ball of mass 5 kg experiences a force (c) 4 ´ 4 ´ 2 ´ 10 8 erg (d) 4 ´ 2 ´ 2 erg
2 2= + .FWork
x x done in displacing the ball by
Solution KE acquired = Work done
(a) 22/3 J (b) 44/3 J (c) 32/3 J (d) 16/3 J
F ´ s = 4 ´2J
x x
Solution Work done, W = ò F dx = ò (2x2 + x) dx
0 0 Example 7 Calculate the KE and PE of the ball half way up ,
2
é 2x2 x2 ù æ16 4 ö 22
when a ball of mass 0.1 kg is thrown vertically upwards with an
=ê + ú =ç + ÷= J initial speed of 20 ms-1.
ë 3 2 û0 è 3 2ø 3
(a) 10 J , 20 J (b) 10 J ,10 J
Example 4 A box is dragged across a floor by a rope which (c) 15 J , 8 J (d) 8 J ,16 J
makes an angle 45° with the horizontal. The tension in the rope Solution Total energy at the time of projection
is 100 N while the box is dragged by 10 m. The work done is 1 1
= mv 2 = ´ 0.1(20) 2 = 20 J
(a) 607.1 J (b) 707.1 J (c) 1414.2 J (d) 900 J 2 2
Solution Work done W = Fs cos q = 100 ´ 10 cos 45° Half way up, PE becomes half the PE at the top
20
100 i.e., PE = = 10 J
= = 707.1J 2
2
\ KE = 20 - 10 = 10 J
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242 JEE Main Physics

Example 8 A spring is kept compressed by a small cart of \ Decrease in PE of block

mass 150 g. On releasing the cart, it moves with a speed of = increase in KE of block + increase in elastic potential
0.2 ms-1. The potential energy of the spring is energy of spring
1 1
(a) 1 ´ 10 -4 J (b) 6 ´ 10 -3 J (c) 4 ´ 10 -4 J (d) 3 ´ 10 -3 J So, 45 ´ 9.8 ´ 0.012 = ´ 45 ´ v 2 + ´ 1050
2 2
1 [(0.075 + 0.024) 2 - (0.075) 2]
Solution PE of spring = KE of mass = mv 2
2 v = 0.37 ms-1
1 æ 150 ö 2 -3
= ç ÷ (0.2) = 3 ´ 10 J
2 è1000 ø Example 12 A single conservative force F(x) acts on a
1.0 kg particle that moves along the x-axis. The potential energy
Example 9 The potential energy of a certain spring when U(x) is given by U(x) = 20 + ( x - 2) 2 where x is in metre. At x =
stretched through a distance s is 10 J. The amount of work (in J )
5.0 m the particle has kinetic energy of 20 J. What is the
That must be done on this spring to stretch it through an
mechanical energy of the system?
additional distance s will be
(a) 44 J (b) 45 J (c) 48 J (d) 49 J
(a) 30 (b) 40 (c) 10 (d) 20
1 2 Solution Potential energy at x = 5 m is U = 20 + (5 - 2) 2 = 29 J
Solution Potential energy E1 = 10 = ks
2 \ Mechanical energy = KE + PE = 20 + 29 = 49 J
1
k ( s + s) 2 = 4 ´ 10 = 40 J
E2 =
2 Example 13 In the above example, the maximum kinetic
Amount of work required = E 2 - E1 = 40 - 10 = 30 J energy of the particle is
(a) 39 J (b) 29 J
Example 10 An obdect of mass 5 kg falls from rest through (c) 30 J (d) None of these
a vertical distance of 20 m and attains a velocity of 10 ms-1.
How much work is done by the resistance of the air on the Solution Maximum kinetic energy at x = 2 m
object? ( g = 10 ms-2) where PE is minimum and the maximum kinetic energy is
(a) 750 J (b) - 750 J (c) 850 J (d) - 650 J Kmax = E - Umin = 49 - 20 = 29 J

Solution Applying work-energy theorem Example 14 When a belt moves horizontally at a constant
Work done ball the forces = Change in kinetic energy speed of 1.5 ms-1, gravel is falling on it at 5 kgs -1. Then, the
1 extra power needed to drive the belt is
or Wmg + Wair = mv 2
2 (a) 11.25 W (b) 37.5 W
1 1 (c) 7.5 W (d) 0.75 W
\ Wair = mv 2 - Wmg = mv 2 - mgh
2 2
Solution Here, v = 1.5 ms-1
1
= ´ 5 ´ (10) 2 - 5 ´ 10 ´ 20 = - 750 J dm dm
2 = 5 kg ms-1,F = ´ v = 5 ´ 1.5 = 7.5 N
dt dt
P = F ´ v = 7.5 ´ 1.5 = 11.25 W
Example 11 The system is released from rest with the
spring initially stretched 75 mm. Calculate the velocity of the
block after it has dropped 12 mm. The spring has a stiffness of Example 15 A machine gun fires 360 bullets per minute,
1050 Nm -1. Neglect the mass of the small pulley. with a velocity of 600 ms-1. If the power of the gun is 5.4 kW.
(a) 0.371 ms-1 (b) 0.45 ms-1 (c) 5 ms-1 (d) 2.2 ms-1
mass of each bullet is
(a) 5 kg (b) 0.5 kg (c) 5 g (d) 0.5 g
Solution When the block descends 12 mm, spring further
Solution Here, n =
360
= 6 bullets s -1
stretches by 24 mm 60
v = 600 ms-1, m = ?
Power of gun = Power of bullets
1
5.4 ´ 10 3 = (nm) v 2
2
2 ´ 5400 = 6 ´ m(600) 2
2 ´ 5400
or m= kg
6 ´ 600 ´ 600
45 kg 1 1000
= kg = g =5g
200 200
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Start Practice for

JEE Main
Round I (Topically Divided Problems)

Work 6. A 5 kg brick of 20 cm × 10 cm × 8 cm dimensionless

1. Under the action of a force, a 2 kg body moves such lying on the largest base. It is now made to stand
that its position x as a function of time t is given by with length vertical. If g =10 ms -2 , then the amount
x = t 3 / 3, where x is in metre and t in second. The of work done is
work done by the force in the first two seconds is (a) 3 J (b) 5 J (c) 7 J (d) 9 J
(a) 1.6 J (b) 16 J 7. A block of mass 10 kg slides down a rough slope
(c) 160 J (d) 1600 J which is inclined at 45° to the horizontal. The
2. The work done in pulling up a block of wood coefficient of sliding friction is 0.30. When the block has
weighing 2 kN for a length of 10 m on a smooth plane slide 5 m, the work done on the block by the force of
inclined at an angle of 15° with the horizontal is friction is nearly
[sin 15° = 0.2588] (a) 115 J (b) 75 2 J
(a) 4.36 kJ (b) 5.13 kJ (c) 321.4 J (d) –321.4 J
(c) 8.91 kJ (d) 9.82 kJ 8. In a children’s park, there is a slide which has a total
3. A mass M is lowered with the help of a string by a length of 10 m and a height of 8.0 m. A vertical ladder
distance h at a constant acceleration g/2. The work is provided to reach the top. A boy weighing 200 N
done by the string will be climbs up the ladder to the top of the slide and slides
Mgh -Mgh 3Mgh -3Mgh down to the ground. The average friction offered by
(a) (b) (c) (d) the slide is three-tenth of his weight. The work done
2 2 2 2
by the slide on the boy as he comes down is
4. An electron and a proton are moving under the
influence of mutual forces. In calculating the change
in the kinetic energy of the system during motion,
one ignores the magnetic force of one on another.
This is because, [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) the two magnetic forces are equal and opposite, so they
produce no net effect
(b) the magnetic forces do no work on each particle
(a) zero (b) + 600 J (c) –600 J (d) +1600 J
(c) the magnetic forces do equal and opposite (but
non-zero) work on each particle 9. A proton is kept at rest. A positively charged particle
(d) the magnetic forces are necessarily negligible is released from rest at a distance d in its field.
5. A ball of mass 0.2 kg is thrown vertically upwards by Consider two experiments; one in which the charged
applying a force by hand. If the hand moves 0.2 m particle is also a proton and in another, a positron. In
while applying the force and the ball goes upto 2 m the same time t, the work done on the two moving
height further. Find the magnitude of force charged particles is [NCERT Exemplar]
(Consider g = 10 m / s2 ) (a) same as the same force law is involved in the experiments
(a) 22 N (b) 4 N (b) less for the case of a positron, as the positron moves away
(c) 16 N (d) 20 N more rapidly and the force on it weakness.