Physics

Physics

Problem

A body is moved along a straight line by a machine delivering constant power. The distance moved by the body in time tt is proportional to a. t1/2t^{1/2} b. t3/4t^{3/4} c. t3/2t^{3/2} d. t2t^2
Intuitive explanation

The key insight is that constant power means P=FvP = Fv stays fixed, so as the body accelerates, the force must decrease. Since F=maF = ma and power is constant, you'll get a differential equation linking velocity to time—and integrating that relationship will show how distance scales with time. The trick is recognizing that under constant power, the work-energy theorem (W=ΔKEW = \Delta KE) is your most direct path.

Intuitive explanation

The key insight is that constant power means P=FvP = Fv stays fixed, so as the body accelerates, the force must decrease. Since F=maF = ma and power is constant, you'll get a differential equation linking velocity to time—and integrating that relationship will show how distance scales with time. The trick is recognizing that under constant power, the work-energy theorem (W=ΔKEW = \Delta KE) is your most direct path.

Browse the problem library