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Now assume that both blocks have the same speed after being pushed with the same force \( \vec{F} \). What can be said about the distances the two blocks are pushed? View Available Hint(s) The heavy block must be pushed 16 times farther than the light block. The heavy block must be pushed 4 times farther than the light block. The heavy block must be pushed the same distance as the light block. pushed half as far as the light block.

Ask by Daniel Watkins. in the United States
Feb 27,2025

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Answer

The heavy block must be pushed 4 times farther than the light block.

Solution

Using the work–energy principle, the work done by the force F on a block is given by   Work = F · d = ½ m v², where d is the distance the block is pushed, m is its mass, and v is its final speed. Rearranging gives:   d = (½ m v²) / F. If both blocks reach the same final speed v with the same applied force F, then the distance each block is pushed is directly proportional to its mass. In other words, the ratio of the distances is   d_heavy / d_light = m_heavy / m_light. For instance, if the heavy block’s mass is 4 times the light block’s mass (say, 16 kg versus 4 kg), then   d_heavy / d_light = 16/4 = 4, meaning the heavy block must be pushed 4 times farther than the light block to reach the same speed. Thus, the correct statement is: The heavy block must be pushed 4 times farther than the light block.

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The Deep Dive

When both blocks are pushed with the same force and reach the same speed, they will indeed travel different distances due to their varying masses. According to the work-energy principle, the work done on each block must be proportional to its mass. Thus, if you’re pushing a heavy block, it requires more work (and therefore more distance traveled under the same force) compared to a lighter block to reach the same speed. In this scenario, if the heavy block is 16 times more massive than the light block, it would have to cover that extra distance to reach a comparable speed. If the mass ratios differ, the distances will change accordingly—so get ready for some physics fun involving force, mass, and distance! Consider experimenting with toy cars of different weights. Push them with a consistent force (like a gentle blow), and observe how far each travels until they reach a certain speed. A heavy car may take longer and must be pushed farther, illustrating the principles of inertia and acceleration in a tangible way!

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