Work vs. effort: Why is it easier to roll a stone up an inclined road than to lift it vertically? Analyze in terms of work done and applied force (mechanical advantage of an incline). Choose the correct option.
IIT JEE
Physics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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ABecause less work is done on the incline than lifting the same height
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BBecause the stone loses mass on the incline
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CBecause the applied force is smaller over a longer distance; total work (mgh) is the same
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DBecause gravity is weaker along a slope
Answer
Correct Answer: Because the applied force is smaller over a longer distance; total work (mgh) is the same
Explanation
Energy viewRaising height h requires work W = mgh (ideal, ignoring friction) either way. An incline provides mechanical advantage: smaller force over larger distance.
Final AnswerBecause the applied force is smaller over a longer distance; total work (mgh) is the same