Energy Considerations

In the previous section, we learned that we multiplied the force by 10. Does that mean we are creating energy? We apply 50 lb force and it is converted into a 500 lb force, does this indicate we magnifying energy?

The answer is “no”. Let’s look at the energy picture in a little bit more detail.

Click on the “Apply Force” button. Notice that we do indeed create a higher force on the work side, which is able to move a much heavier weight. But, look at the energy input versus energy output picture.

Energy Input = Force x distance = F1 x D1

Energy Output = Force x distance = F2 X D2

Since energy cannot be created nor destroyed, energy input must be equal to energy output. Therefore, we get:

F1 x D1 = F2 x D2

Notice that D2 is much smaller than D1. Therefore, the answer to the riddle is that, indeed F2 is much greater than F1, but it acts through a small distance.