Verified Solution Science Work, Energy, and Simple Machines

If a force F acts on an object at an angle theta to the direction of displacement d, the work done is given by W = Fd cos(theta). Under what condition will the work done be zero?

4 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 5, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
  • AWhen force is parallel to displacement.
  • BWhen force is perpendicular to displacement.
  • CWhen force is opposite to displacement.
  • DWhen displacement is negative.
Explanation

If the force is perpendicular to the displacement, the angle theta between them is 90 degrees. Since cos(90°) = 0, the work done (W = Fd cos(90°)) will be zero.

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