Question: Learning Goal: To learn about the Work-Energy Theorem and its basic applications.
In this problem, you will learn about the relationship between the work done on an object and the kinetic energy of that object.
The kinetic energy of an object of mass moving at a speed is defined as . It seems reasonable to say that the speed of an object--and, therefore, its kinetic energy--can be changed by performing work on the object. In this problem, we will explore the mathematical relationship between the work done on an object and the change in the kinetic energy of that object.
First, let us consider a sled of mass being pulled by a constant, horizontal force of magnitude along a rough, horizontal surface. The sled is speeding up.
Let us now consider the situation quantitatively. Let the mass of the sled be and the magnitude of the net force acting on the sled be . The sled starts from rest.
Consider an interval of time during which the sled covers a distance and the speed of the sled increases from to . We will use this information to find the relationship between the work done by the net force (otherwise known as the net work) and the change in the kinetic energy of the sled.
Part H: Find the net force acting on the sled. Express your answer in terms of some or all of the variables m, s, v_1, and v_2.