Negative work means
A)the kinetic energy of the object increases.
B)the applied force is variable.
C)the applied force is perpendicular to the displacement.
D)the applied force is opposite to the displacement.
E)nothing; there is no such thing as negative work.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Negative work occurs when the applied force is in the opposite direction of the displacement of the object. This means that the work being done is taking away energy from the object, causing its kinetic energy to decrease. Choice A is incorrect because increasing kinetic energy would indicate positive work. Choice B is not a defining characteristic of negative work. Choice C describes the case where no work is being done, as the force and displacement are perpendicular. Choice E is not true, as negative work is a valid concept in physics.

Negative Work Means