Calculating Force - Intuition vs. Solution

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In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving calculating the force of an object in space, with a mass of 68 kg and a displacement of 2.25 m in 3.0 seconds. The proper answer is 34 N, found by using the formula F=ma. However, there is confusion about using dimensional analysis to solve the problem and the possibility of a dimensionless constant 'k'. The conversation concludes with the question of what the value of 'k' could be.
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ohms law
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I'm having a little trouble conceptualizing calculations of force. The problem statement was:
An object in space with a mass of 68 kg is propelled forward at a constant force ([itex]\vec{F}[/itex]) for 3.0 seconds. After 3.0 s, the object has moved 2.25 m. find [itex]\vec{F}[/itex].

I can regurgitate the proper answer (34 N) by finding [itex]a_{x}=2 \Delta x/t^{2} = 0.50 m/s^{2}[/itex] and [itex]\vec{F}=ma_{x} = (68kg)(0.50 m/s^{2}) = 34 N[/itex].

the problem is that my intuition tells me that it should be:
t = 3.0s
m = 68 kg
Δx = 2.25 m
So since [itex]N = kg \cdot m / s^{2}[/itex], [itex]N = 68 kg \cdot 2.25 m / 3.0 s^{2} = 17 N[/itex], which is obviously wrong. But, does that actually mean something else? Is that some sort of instantaneous value or something, or is it completely meaningless?
 
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  • #2
What you have done is basically dimensional analysis. When you do this you need to keep in mind that the expression may contain a dimensionless constant, say 'k', which you need to include. Two quantities dimensionally equal aren't necessarily the same.

So, in your case it would be,

[tex]F \alpha [M][L][T]^{-2}[/tex]

Therefore,

[tex]F = k * MLT^{-2}[/tex]

Where the value of k is...? :wink:

...And, I feel good to be able to post again. :biggrin:
 

1. How do you calculate force?

The formula for calculating force is force = mass x acceleration. This means that the force acting on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration.

2. What is the difference between intuition and solution when calculating force?

Intuition is the ability to understand or know something without the need for conscious reasoning. In the context of calculating force, intuition would involve estimating or approximating the force based on personal understanding or experience. In contrast, a solution involves using a specific formula or method to accurately calculate the force.

3. Can intuition be used to accurately calculate force?

While intuition can provide a general idea of the force, it is not as accurate as using a specific formula or method. Intuition may be useful for estimating or understanding the concept, but a solution is needed for precise calculations.

4. Are there any other factors to consider when calculating force?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the calculation of force. These include the direction of the force, the type of force (e.g. gravitational, frictional), and the units used for mass and acceleration.

5. Can force be calculated for objects in motion?

Yes, force can be calculated for objects in motion. In this case, the formula would be force = mass x acceleration + mass x velocity x change in velocity over time. This takes into account the change in velocity over time, also known as acceleration, and adds it to the initial force calculation.

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