With an initial radial velocity of 10 m/s, the particle starts at position 1, wh

Question

With an initial radial velocity of 10 m/s, the particle starts at position 1, where in spherical coordinates (r,,) = (1,0,0). The particle moves to position 2: (r,,) = (3,0,0), where its velocity is 5 m/s in the direction. Eventually the particle returns to its original position and velocity: (r,,) = (1,0,0) and 10 m/s in the radial direction. What is the total net work done on the particle? Why? Hint: This is a trick question. If you have to do any difficult calculations, you missed the trick. You must, however, explain clearly in complete sentences the reasoning behind your answer and the trick.

Explanation / Answer

A conservative force is a force with the property that the work done in moving a particle between two points is independent of the path taken. Equivalently, if a particle travels in a closed loop, the net work done (the sum of the force acting along the path multiplied by the distance traveled) by a conservative force is zero. here the particle is moved in a closed loop. so the work done is zero.

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