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Set 3 Problem number 26


Problem

As the total nongravitational force on an object of mass 3.2 kg does 57 J of work, its gravitational PE also decreases by 82 J. What is its change in KE?

Solution

PE decreases when altitude decreases, so that work is done on the object by gravity.  The work done on the object against the net force will tend to increase its KE.

As an example consider an object falling under the influence of gravity.

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