Chapter 7, Problem 1CQ

Is it possible to do work on an object that remains at rest?

To determine

Whether it is possible to do work on an object that remains at the rest.

Answer to Problem 1CQ

No, it is not possible to do work on an object that remains at the rest.

Explanation of Solution

Given info: The object is remains the rest that means the displacement of the object is zero.

Explanation:

Write the expression for the work done on an object.

$W=F\cdot S$

Here,

$F$ is the force.

$S$ is the displacement along the direction of force.

Substitute $0$ for $S$ in the above expression.

$\begin{array}{c}W=F\cdot \left(0\right)\\ =0\end{array}$

From the above result, it is clear that the work done on an object which is remains in the rest is $0$.

Conclusion:

Therefore, it is not possible to do work on an object that remains at the rest.