Calculating work using vectors.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work done by a 25N force acting in the direction of the vector (2,3,-1) while moving an object from point P(2,-3,1) to point Q(5,0,2). The work is computed using the formula Work = Force (dot) Displacement, where displacement is determined by the vector Q-P. The direction vector (2,3,-1) is essential for establishing the direction of the force, and the magnitude of the force vector is derived from the force's magnitude multiplied by the unit vector in the direction of (2,3,-1).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector operations, specifically dot products
  • Knowledge of force and displacement concepts in physics
  • Familiarity with unit vectors and their calculation
  • Basic skills in vector notation and manipulation
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  • Learn how to calculate unit vectors from direction vectors
  • Study the properties and applications of dot products in physics
  • Explore vector displacement calculations in three-dimensional space
  • Review the principles of work and energy in classical mechanics
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the application of vectors in calculating work done by forces in three-dimensional space.

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Homework Statement



Calculate the work done if a 25N force acting in a direction of vector (2,3,-1) moves an object from P(2,-3,1) to Q(5,0,2).


Homework Equations



Work = Force (dot) Displacement

The Attempt at a Solution



Well force is 25N. But as for displacement, do I just find the displacement of the points P and Q, but then what's the direction vector (2,3,-1) for? I'm just a bit confused on this.
 
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The displacement is going to be the vector Q-P. The direction vector is what direction the force is pushing on the object... you use the 25N part to determine what the magnitude of the force vector is. Then you take the dot product of that vector and Q-P
 
The direction vector gives you the direction of the 25N force vector. The force vector is just the magnitude of the force times the unit normal in the direction of the force. You should be able to calculate the unit normal of the direction vector (2,3,-1).
 

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