QuestionAugust 10, 2025

The work done by a friction force is: a. always positive b. always negative c. always zero d. either positive or negative depending upon the situation

The work done by a friction force is: a. always positive b. always negative c. always zero d. either positive or negative depending upon the situation
The work done by a friction force is:
a. always positive
b. always negative
c. always zero
d. either positive or negative depending upon the situation

Solution
4.5(319 votes)

Answer

b. always negative Explanation 1. Understand Friction Force Friction opposes motion, doing work against the direction of movement. 2. Determine Work Done by Friction Work done (W) is given by **W = F \cdot d \cdot \cos(\theta)**, where \theta is the angle between force and displacement. For friction, \theta = 180^\circ, so \cos(180^\circ) = -1. 3. Analyze the Sign of Work Since \cos(180^\circ) = -1, work done by friction is negative.

Explanation

1. Understand Friction Force<br /> Friction opposes motion, doing work against the direction of movement.<br /><br />2. Determine Work Done by Friction<br /> Work done ($W$) is given by **$W = F \cdot d \cdot \cos(\theta)$**, where $\theta$ is the angle between force and displacement. For friction, $\theta = 180^\circ$, so $\cos(180^\circ) = -1$.<br /><br />3. Analyze the Sign of Work<br /> Since $\cos(180^\circ) = -1$, work done by friction is negative.
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