A block of mass m is moving down with constant velocity along an inclined plane of inclination `theta`. What is the work done by external force in pulling the block along the inclined plane through a height h with constant velocity?

Explanation

Since the block moves down along the inclined plane with constant velocity , its net acceleration is zero. Therefore the net external force acting on the block is zero.
`rArr Sigma F_(x)=0` and `SigmaF_(y)=0`
`rArr mg sin theta -f_(x)=0`,
where `f_(x)=` kinetic friction developed at the interface of the block and the inclined plane (since the block is sliding).
`rArr f_(k)=mg sin theta` ...(1)

Let the applied force F be parallel to the inclined plane. When it pulls the block up, kinetic friction acts down to oppose the relative motion. The work done by the force to displace the block through a distance `l` along the inclined plane is given as
`W=vec(F).vec(s)=Fs=Fl`
where, `l= h cosec theta`
`rArr W=Fh cosec theta `...(2)
Since the block slides up with constant velocity, the net acceleration, therefore the net force acting on the block,
`Sigma F_(x)=0` and `Sigma F_(y)=0`
`rArr F-mg sin theta - f_(k)=0` ...(3)
Using (1) and (3)
`F=2mg sin theta` ...(4)
Using (2) and (3), we obtain
`W=2 mgh`