Determine the work done to move the particle

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The work done to move a particle from x = 0 to x = 9.2 m under a net force that varies with position can be calculated by determining the area under the force versus position graph. The force increases linearly from 0 N at x = 0 to 284 N at x = 3.0 m, remains constant at 284 N from x = 3.0 m to x = 7.0 m, and then decreases linearly to 0 N at x = 9.2 m. The resulting shape of the graph is a trapezoid, which allows for straightforward calculation of the work done using the area formula for trapezoids.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically work and force.
  • Familiarity with graphical representation of functions.
  • Knowledge of trapezoidal area calculation.
  • Ability to perform integration for variable forces.
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the area of a trapezoid to determine work done in this scenario.
  • Explore the concept of integration for variable forces in physics.
  • Review graphical methods for calculating work done by a force.
  • Study the relationship between force, distance, and work in physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and work-energy principles, as well as educators looking for examples of force and work calculations.

Bones
Messages
108
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The net force exerted on a particle acts in the positive x direction. Its magnitude increases linearly from zero at x = 0, to 284 N at x = 3.0 m. It remains constant at 284 N from x = 3.0 m to x = 7.0 m and then decreases linearly to zero at point A where x = 9.2 m. Determine the work done to move the particle from x = 0 to x = 9.2 m by graphically determining the area under the F versus x graph.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I drew the graph and it looks like a trapezoid. I am not sure where to go from here.
 
Physics news on Phys.org


Bones said:

Homework Statement


The net force exerted on a particle acts in the positive x direction. Its magnitude increases linearly from zero at x = 0, to 284 N at x = 3.0 m. It remains constant at 284 N from x = 3.0 m to x = 7.0 m and then decreases linearly to zero at point A where x = 9.2 m. Determine the work done to move the particle from x = 0 to x = 9.2 m by graphically determining the area under the F versus x graph.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


I drew the graph and it looks like a trapezoid. I am not sure where to go from here.

Welcome to PF.

What is the area then of your trapezoid?

Isn't Work the product of the Force multiplied by the distance over which it acts?
So when Force is a function of distance isn't it:

[tex]Work = \int F_{(x)} dx[/tex]

And this can be found graphically by measuring the area under the graph.
 


Yeah, I figured it out. It just helps sometimes to find a good example for guidelines. Thanks ;)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
25
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
954
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
29
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K