Lesson 5 – Work, Energy and Power Advanced / IIT-JEE Numerical Problems

These problems reflect IIT-JEE patterns where using the energy method is faster than Newton’s laws. Each problem highlights the correct method choice.


Problem 1: Variable Force (IIT Favorite)

Q1. A force F = 3x² N acts on a particle along x-direction. Find the work done in moving the particle from x = 0 to x = 2 m.

Method: Energy / integration

Work done:
W = ∫ F dx = ∫ 3x² dx

W = 3 ∫ x² dx = 3 [x³ / 3]₀² = 2³ = 8 J

Answer: Work done = 8 J

IIT Tip: Variable force → NEVER use F = ma directly.


Problem 2: Energy Conservation with Height

Q2. A body of mass 2 kg is dropped from a height of 5 m. Find its speed just before hitting the ground. (Take g = 10 m/s²)

Method: Conservation of energy

Potential energy = mgh = 2 × 10 × 5 = 100 J

Kinetic energy = ½ mv²

½ × 2 × v² = 100 → v² = 100 → v = 10 m/s

Answer: Speed = 10 m/s

Shortcut: Time & acceleration avoided completely.


Problem 3: Friction + Energy Loss

Q3. A block of mass 1 kg slides on a rough surface with initial speed 6 m/s. If friction force is 3 N, find the distance travelled before it stops.

Method: Work–energy theorem

Initial KE = ½ mv² = 18 J

Work done by friction = −Fs = −3s

Using work–energy theorem:
−3s = −18 → s = 6 m

Answer: Distance travelled = 6 m

IIT Trap: Friction breaks energy conservation.


Problem 4: Power at an Instant

Q4. A body moves with velocity 5 m/s under a force of 4 N. Find the instantaneous power.

Formula: P = F · v

P = 4 × 5 = 20 W

Answer: Power = 20 W

Key Idea: Power depends on velocity, not displacement.


Problem 5: Constant Velocity Trap

Q5. A body moves with constant velocity on a horizontal surface. What is the net power acting on it?

At constant velocity → Net force = 0

Hence, Power = F · v = 0

Answer: Net power = 0

IIT Trap: Individual forces may do work, but net power is zero.


Problem 6: Energy Method vs Newton’s Law

Q6. A particle moves under a force such that its kinetic energy changes from 9 J to 25 J. Find the work done.

Work done = Change in kinetic energy = 25 − 9 = 16 J

Answer: Work done = 16 J

Toppers’ Trick: KE change → no need of mass, velocity, or force.


Advanced Problem-Solving Strategy

  • Check if energy method applies first
  • Avoid time whenever possible
  • Use integration for variable forces
  • Account for energy losses carefully

“Choose the right method — half the problem is solved.”

Work, Energy & Power – Complete Physics Library

This is the MASTER LIBRARY PAGE for the complete chapter Work, Energy and Power, prepared for Intermediate, IIT-JEE (Main & Advanced), NEET and competitive exams.

All concepts are explained from basic to IIT level, including theory, derivations, numerical problems, objective questions, previous year questions, tough IIT problems, tricks and cautions.

Prepared by: Shaktimatha Learning 🌱

Strong Concepts • Smart Practice • Exam Success

No comments:

Post a Comment

  📘 IIT–JEE Physics Complete Master Library (Class XI & XII) Concepts • Problems • Advanced Applications • Thinking Skill...