Question

A non-conservative force is one for which

• A. work depends only on initial position
• B. work depends only on final position
• C. work is always zero
• D. work depends on path
• E. energy is conserved

Hint:

Remember that non-conservative forces "rob" the system of mechanical energy. Think of pushing a box on a rough floor—taking a longer, winding path requires much more effort (work) than a straight line because friction acts along the entire path length.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept:
Physics - Conservative and Non-Conservative Forces.
Step 1: Define a non-conservative force.
A force is said to be non-conservative if the work done by or against the force in moving a body from one point to another depends on the actual path followed between those two points.
Step 2: Identify key characteristics.

• For non-conservative forces, the work done in a closed loop (returning to the start) is NOT zero.
• Common examples include Friction, Air Resistance, and Viscous drag.

Step 3: Contrast with conservative forces.
In conservative forces (like Gravity or Electrostatic forces), work is path-independent and only depends on initial and final positions. Non-conservative forces dissipate mechanical energy into other forms like heat.
Step 4: Select the matching definition.
Based on Step 1, the defining trait of a non-conservative force is that the work depends on the path.