Understanding the Concepts
* Work: Work is done when a force causes an object to move a certain distance. It's calculated as:
* Work (W) = Force (F) x Distance (d)
* Gravity: Gravity is the force that pulls objects towards the center of the Earth.
* Potential Energy: When an object is raised to a height, it gains potential energy due to its position relative to the Earth. This energy is converted into kinetic energy as it falls.
Calculations
1. Force of Gravity: The force of gravity acting on the ball is its weight:
* Force (F) = mass (m) x acceleration due to gravity (g)
* F = 5 kg x 9.8 m/s²
* F = 49 N (Newtons)
2. Distance: The distance the ball falls is the height:
* Distance (d) = 8 m
3. Work Done:
* Work (W) = Force (F) x Distance (d)
* W = 49 N x 8 m
* W = 392 Joules (J)
Therefore, the work done by gravity on the ball as it falls is 392 Joules.
