A particle of mass m is initially at rest

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a particle of mass m that is initially at rest and is subjected to a time-dependent force F=Ct². Participants are tasked with determining the velocity v as a function of time, considering the implications of varying acceleration due to the time-dependent force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between force, acceleration, and velocity, noting that since the force is time-dependent, the acceleration is also a function of time and not constant. There are attempts to integrate acceleration to find velocity and position, with some questioning the correctness of their methods.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the integration process and the importance of including constants of integration. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of varying acceleration and the integration steps required to derive velocity and position from force.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of integrating functions of time and applying initial conditions, with some expressing uncertainty about their calculations and the necessity of constants of integration.

Calpalned
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Homework Statement


A particle of mass m, initially at rest at x=0, is accelerated by a force that increases in time as F=Ct2. Determine its velocity v as a function of time.

Homework Equations


x = vt
v = at

The Attempt at a Solution


The correct method makes sense, but my method has no error. However, my answer is wrong. Why?
http://photo1.ask.fm/726/204/412/-69996997-1sha200-dqjla0edmhpamrf/original/IMG_4066.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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v=at only works for constant acceleration. Integration works for constant or varying acceleration.
 
So because force is a function of time (f = Ct2), acceleration is also a function of time and therefore not constant?
Thanks
 
Calpalned said:
So because force is a function of time (f = Ct2), acceleration is also a function of time and therefore not constant?
Thanks
Yes.
 
Thank you so much
 
I don't see how you got 3m at the bottom? does it have to do with the fact that t is to the third power?
 
Colin R said:
I don't see how you got 3m at the bottom? does it have to do with the fact that t is to the third power?
Yes. What is ##\int t^2.dt##?
 
haruspex said:
Yes. What is ##\int t^2.dt##?
I figured it out, it is the antiderivative I believe
 
I solved this questions like;

$$ F=m.a $$ $$ F=Ct^2 $$ => $$ m.a = Ct^2 $$ $$ a= \frac {Ct^2} {m} $$
and if we integrate "a" respect to time(t), we obtain velocity(v);
$$ \int \frac {Ct^2} {m} dt = \frac {Ct^3} {3m} = V $$
and if we integrate "v" respect to time(t), we obtain position(x);
$$ \int \frac {Ct^3} {3m} dt = \frac {Ct^4} {12m} = X $$

I'm not sure, tell me if it's correct.
 
Last edited:
  • #10
mastermechanic said:
tell me if it's correct
It is, but technically you should go through the step of allowing for a constant of inrtegration each time, then using the initial conditions to show it is zero.
 

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