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How Can the Work-Energy Principle Explain the Motion of a Bicycle?

The Work-Energy Principle is a simple idea. It says that the work we do on an object is equal to how much its kinetic energy changes.

Let’s break this down step by step:

  1. Force while pedaling: When a cyclist pedals, they push down with a certain force. For example, a typical cyclist might push down with a force of about 100 newtons (N).

  2. Distance traveled: If the cyclist rides 10 meters while pedaling, we can figure out the work done. It’s calculated like this:
    Work = Force × Distance
    Work = 100 N × 10 m = 1000 joules (J)

  3. Kinetic energy increase: The work done while pedaling helps to increase the bicycle's kinetic energy. This means the bike starts moving faster. If the bike weighs 70 kilograms (kg), this increase in energy can really change how fast it goes.

In short, when a cyclist pedals, the work they do directly increases the bicycle's kinetic energy. This shows how work and energy are connected.

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How Can the Work-Energy Principle Explain the Motion of a Bicycle?

The Work-Energy Principle is a simple idea. It says that the work we do on an object is equal to how much its kinetic energy changes.

Let’s break this down step by step:

  1. Force while pedaling: When a cyclist pedals, they push down with a certain force. For example, a typical cyclist might push down with a force of about 100 newtons (N).

  2. Distance traveled: If the cyclist rides 10 meters while pedaling, we can figure out the work done. It’s calculated like this:
    Work = Force × Distance
    Work = 100 N × 10 m = 1000 joules (J)

  3. Kinetic energy increase: The work done while pedaling helps to increase the bicycle's kinetic energy. This means the bike starts moving faster. If the bike weighs 70 kilograms (kg), this increase in energy can really change how fast it goes.

In short, when a cyclist pedals, the work they do directly increases the bicycle's kinetic energy. This shows how work and energy are connected.

Related articles