Question

The gravitational force is a :
1. Dynamic force
2. Constant force
3. Conservative force
4. Non-conservative force

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : Conservative force

Ans: Option:3)

CONCEPT:

• Conservative force: A force is conservative if the work done by the force in displacing an object from one point to another point is independent of the path followed by the object and depends only on the endpoints.
  • Electrostatic forces, gravitational forces, elastic forces, magnetic forces, etc and are examples of a conservative force.

• Non-conservative forces: A force is said to be non-conservative if work done by or against the force in moving a body from one position to another, depends on the path followed between these two positions.
  • Example:  Frictional force, Viscous force, Airdrag, etc.

• Gravitational force: The force of attraction exerted by the earth on a body is called gravitational force.

EXPLANATION:

• The work done by the gravitational force does not depend on the angle of inclination or path followed by the body.
  • It depends on the initial and final position of the body. This proves that the gravitational force is a conservative force.

• The Gravitational force is the weakest of all the real forces such as electrostatic force, magnetic force, and nuclear forces.