Toderick D.
asked • 01/23/20how much work is performed on an object to keep it moving on a frictionless surface
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1 Expert Answer
Barry M. answered • 01/23/20
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Professor, CalTech Grad; Many Years Tutoring Math, SAT/ACT Prep, Chem
IMHO, This is really a physics problem more than chemistry.
If the surface is level, so the force of gravity is perpendicular to the direction of motion on the surface, then no work is needed. An object in motion tends to remain in motion.
If the surface is at an angle going up, then you need work to keep it moving. That may depend on the vertical distance needed, the component of gravity determined from the angle of elevation, W = F X d, or mgh.
If it's angled down, then no work is required on the object; it is doing work.
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Stanton D.
Depends on the slope of the frictionless surface. If the slope is level, with no additional forces other than gravity and support acting on it, then no work need be performed. If the slope is directly uphill, work must be performed (eventually) to keep it moving. Note that the question is not: "to keep it moving at the same speed in the same direction", so you have quite a bit of latitude in how you "keep it moving" -- you could move it in a figure-8 racecourse, and so on. Just as long as you don't apply any component of force in the direction in which it is moving instantaneously. -- Cheers, -- Mr. d.01/23/20