From a physics perspective, energy would be integral of force * distance moved in direction of the force, so no motion should mean no energy used? So is it a biochemical effect of the way our muscles work?
2006-10-24 12:00:23 · 5 answers · asked by Adrian W 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Most of these answers are off the mark. Your initial thoughts are correct. Work = force * distance, so there is no mechanical work done if the object doesn't move any distance. The energy consumed has to do with your body's exertion to provide the force to counteract gravity, and that's indeed a biological or chemical phenomenon.
2006-10-24 12:19:04 · answer #1 · answered by kslnet 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you lift a stationary object up, you have added potential energy to the object - and the object, much like a coiled spring or a stretched rubber band will natually seek the position of least energy - and you are preventing it from doing this. The downward force exerted by the object must be met with an equal and opposite upward force - and that, my friend, is you.
2006-10-24 12:13:27 · answer #2 · answered by LeAnne 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because it does take energy. Think about the increased blood flow that is necessary to provide the muscles the oxygen and other things they need to remain stiff.
2006-10-24 12:03:32 · answer #3 · answered by bruinfan 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
energy is used. to hold up a stationary object
implies potential energy is playing a role by virtue of height.
2006-10-24 12:05:22 · answer #4 · answered by anami 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
But you forget the force of gravity -- energy must be used to resist the downward pull, which is the equivalent of movement.
2006-10-24 12:03:48 · answer #5 · answered by Peggy M 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋