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  • Calculating Work Done When Throwing a Ball Upward: Physics Problem & Solution
    Here's how to calculate the work done by the student:

    Understanding the Concepts

    * Work: Work is done when a force causes an object to move a certain distance. The formula for work is:

    * Work (W) = Force (F) x Distance (d)

    * Force of Gravity: The force acting on the ball is gravity, which pulls it downwards. We'll use the acceleration due to gravity (g) which is approximately 9.8 m/s².

    * Potential Energy: As the ball is thrown upwards, it gains potential energy due to its position relative to the ground. This potential energy is equal to the work done to lift it.

    Calculations

    1. Find the force of gravity on the ball:

    * Force (F) = mass (m) x acceleration due to gravity (g)

    * We need the mass of the ball to calculate the force. Let's assume the ball has a mass of 0.5 kg (you'll need to use the actual mass if given).

    * F = 0.5 kg * 9.8 m/s² = 4.9 N (Newtons)

    2. Calculate the work done:

    * Work (W) = Force (F) x Distance (d)

    * W = 4.9 N * 7.50 m = 36.75 J (Joules)

    Answer:

    The student did approximately 36.75 Joules of work to throw the ball to a height of 7.50 meters.

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