Calculating Work done by a force

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating work done by a force using the formula W = Fd, where F represents the force vector and d represents the displacement vector. The force is given as 5 lbs in the direction of the vector 3i + 2j, while the displacement is from (0,0) to (0,4). Participants emphasize the need to determine the correct components for the cosine and sine functions based on the provided coordinates to accurately compute the work done.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector components in two-dimensional space
  • Familiarity with the work-energy principle in physics
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions, specifically sine and cosine
  • Ability to perform vector addition and scalar multiplication
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector representation in physics, focusing on force and displacement vectors
  • Learn how to decompose vectors into their components using trigonometric functions
  • Explore the work-energy theorem and its applications in physics problems
  • Practice solving problems involving work done by forces in various directions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in mastering the concepts of work and force in two-dimensional motion.

Eikcuhc
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Homework Statement


[URL]http://einstein.math.fsu.edu:9080/testbanks/wiley/math/1114ptF08/cch/images/qu.215.9.question.gif[/URL]

Homework Equations


I know that
W = Fd where here it is
W = F * [tex]{\rightarrow}{\}[/tex]AB

Also, that

(im sorry, this looks really ugly)
[tex]\stackrel{v\rightarrow}{}[/tex] = ||v||(cos[tex]\alpha[/tex][tex]\stackrel{i\rightarrow}{}[/tex]+sin[tex]\alpha[/tex][tex]\stackrel{j\rightarrow}{}[/tex])
||v|| = sqrt(a2+b2)


The Attempt at a Solution


I get stuck fairly quickly on this problem, my professor never went on it in class.

using the second equation, I get to the point of

v = (sqrt13)(cos+sin)

I am not sure what goes into the cos and sin portion of the problem, I am assuming it has something to do with the coordinates it gives, but other than that, I have no idea.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Ok, so your force is 5lbs in the direction of 3i+2j, so what is your force vector F?

The displacement is from (0,0) to (0,4), what is you displacement vector d equal to?
 

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