A body projected vertically from the earth reaches a height equal to earth's radius before returning to the earth. The power exerted by the gravitational force is greatest
- at the highest position of the body
- at the instant just before the body hits the earth.
- it remains constant all through.
- at the instant just after the body is projected.
Answer
(2) at the instant just before the body hits the earth.
Solution
Power of the gravitational force: P = F v = Fv
At the highest point, v = 0 P = 0.
Just after projection, v is upward and F is downward ( = 180 ) P = -Fv (negative).
Just before hitting the earth, v and F are both downward ( = 0 ), and v and F (near the surface) are maximum.
P is greatest (maximum positive) just before the body hits the earth.
Answer: (2)