Question

A certain machine can output 50 Joules (J) of energy when 100 J of energy are input. If the amount of friction experienced by the machine is reduced, which of the following is most likely its output?

A.
0 J

B.
25 J

C.
50 J

D.
75 J

Answer 1

To determine the most likely output of the machine when friction is reduced, we first need to analyze the current performance:

Currently, the machine outputs 50 Joules of energy from an input of 100 Joules, which indicates a certain efficiency. The output can be stated as:

Output = Input - Loss due to friction

From the current scenario:
Output = 100 J - Friction Loss
50 J = 100 J - Friction Loss
Friction Loss = 100 J - 50 J = 50 J

This means that currently, 50 J is lost due to friction.

If the amount of friction experienced by the machine is reduced, it would result in less energy lost to friction. Therefore, if you reduce friction, the output can increase beyond the current output of 50 J. The possible options for output (after reducing friction) include:

- 0 J (Not possible, since it would still output some energy)
- 25 J (Lower than current output, which is not reasonable)
- 50 J (Current output, would not change)
- 75 J (More than the current output)

Since reducing friction is expected to increase efficiency and consequently the output energy, the most reasonable and likely output would be **75 J** (option D) after reducing friction.

So the answer is:
**D. 75 J**