Conservative Forces and work done

AI Thread Summary
A constant force F = (3i + 5j) N acts on a 4.00 kg particle moving from the origin to the position r = (2i - 3j)m. The work done by the force can be calculated using the formula W = F · r, but the initial attempt to multiply the force and position directly was incorrect. The discussion highlights that the force is conservative, allowing the use of potential energy concepts to find work done. The potential energy function can be derived from the force, and work can be determined as W_c = -ΔU. Understanding the correct application of these equations is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
cinderblock
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Homework Statement



A single constant force F = (3i + 5j) N acts on a 4.00 kg particle. Calculate the work done by this force if the particle moves from the origin to the point having the vector position r = (2i - 3j)m.

Homework Equations


W= Fr
Wg= mgy1-mgy2
Wc= Ui - Uf

The Attempt at a Solution


First I converted the friction and position coordinates to a single number.
Then I tried to simply multiply the force and position but it was incorrect.
The equations my book gave me was for gravity, spring, and potential but I feel like these equations don't fit in with the problem. What am I doing wrong?

Thank you for your time!
 
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cinderblock said:

Homework Statement



A single constant force F = (3i + 5j) N acts on a 4.00 kg particle. Calculate the work done by this force if the particle moves from the origin to the point having the vector position r = (2i - 3j)m.

Homework Equations


W= Fr
Wg= mgy1-mgy2
Wc= Ui - Uf

The Attempt at a Solution


First I converted the friction and position coordinates to a single number.
Then I tried to simply multiply the force and position but it was incorrect.
The equations my book gave me was for gravity, spring, and potential but I feel like these equations don't fit in with the problem. What am I doing wrong?

Thank you for your time!

The force you've provided is a conservative force since \rm \overrightarrow{\bigtriangledown} x \overrightarrow{F} =0, so you can find the potential energy function using

U = - \int \overrightarrow{F}_c \cdot d\overrightarrow{r} = -\int (F_x dx + F_y dy +F_z dz) +C and
then find the work, W_c = -\Delta U .
 
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