Conservative Forces and work done

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the work done by a constant force F = (3i + 5j) N on a 4.00 kg particle moving from the origin to the position r = (2i - 3j) m. The correct approach involves recognizing that the force is conservative, allowing the use of the potential energy function U. The work done can be calculated using the equation W_c = -ΔU, where ΔU is derived from the integral of the force over the displacement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector forces and their components
  • Knowledge of conservative forces and potential energy
  • Familiarity with the work-energy principle
  • Ability to perform vector calculus integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of conservative forces in physics
  • Learn how to derive potential energy functions from force vectors
  • Explore the work-energy theorem and its applications
  • Practice calculating work done using various force vectors and displacements
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of work done by forces in vector form.

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 [itex]\rm \overrightarrow{\bigtriangledown} x \overrightarrow{F} =0[/itex], so you can find the potential energy function using

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

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