Calculating velocity with force

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The discussion centers on calculating the horizontal velocity of a 2kg object subjected to a net force defined by F=A+Bt^3, where A=5N and B=2N/s^3. The correct approach involves integrating the varying acceleration, derived from the force equation, rather than assuming constant acceleration. The integration yields the velocity formula v(t)=2.5t + (1/4)t^4, which provides a more accurate result. In contrast, using the constant acceleration formula led to an incorrect velocity calculation. The importance of recognizing when acceleration is not constant is emphasized in the solution.
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Homework Statement


A net horizontal force F=A+Bt^3 acts on a 2kg object, where A=5N and B =2N/s^3. What is the horizontal velocity of this object 4 seconds after it starts from rest?

Homework Equations


F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


F=ma=5N+(2N/s^3)t^3
(2kg)a=5N+(2N/s^3)(4s)^3 ==> a= 2.5N + t^3 = 66.5m/s^2

a=dv/dt ==> v=(2.5 N)t + (1/4 N)t^4
when t= 4s
V= (2.5)(4) +(1/4)(4)^4 = 74m/s

I used V=Vi+at when Vi=0m/s, t=4s, a=66.5m/s^2, and I got V=266m/s

Which one is correct way of solving it, and why? Please let me know. Thanks
 
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It seems like the first method is right.
V = Vi + at only applies when acceleration is constant .
 
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I mean, ## v(t) = v(0) + \int_0^t a(\tau) d\tau ##, which as you correctly pointed out is
## v(t) =0+ \int_0^t \frac{ F(\tau)}{m} d\tau \\
\quad = \int_0^t 2.5 + \tau^3 d\tau \\
\quad = \left. (2.5\tau + \frac14 \tau^4) \right|_0^t \\
\quad =2.5t + \frac{t^4} {4} ##

Since acceleration is increasing (quickly) with time, it should be pretty clear why if you use a(4) as your constant acceleration in the equation:
v(t)=v_i+at,
the result would be so much larger than you found with the correct method.
 
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Yeah you are right. I just assumed the acceleration was constant that's why the result was incorrect. Thanks guys!
 
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