Determine work in circular motion

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the work done by a constant force acting at a 30-degree angle on an object moving along a circular path. The user questions the need for integration despite the force being constant, suggesting confusion over the application of the work formula. It is clarified that while the force's magnitude is constant, its direction changes along the circular path, necessitating integration. The relationship between the force and the distance element vector is also addressed, confirming that the work can indeed be expressed as the dot product of the force and displacement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding vector components in circular motion.
Calpalned
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Homework Statement


An object, moving along the circumference of a circle with radius ##R##, is acted upon by a force of constant magnitude F. The force is directed at all times at a ## 30 \degrees ## angle with respect to the tangent to the circle. Determine the work done by this force when the object moves along the half circle from A to B.

Homework Equations


N/a

The Attempt at a Solution


My solutions guide tells me to us ##\int (Fcos \theta dl)## The question stated "constant force", so why do we need to integrate? Why can't I use F dot D?

Thank you!

By the way, how do I write in limits for integration?
 
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Calpalned said:

Homework Statement


An object, moving along the circumference of a circle with radius ##R##, is acted upon by a force of constant magnitude F. The force is directed at all times at a ## 30 \degrees ## angle with respect to the tangent to the circle. Determine the work done by this force when the object moves along the half circle from A to B.

Homework Equations


N/a

The Attempt at a Solution


My solutions guide tells me to us ##\int (Fcos \theta dl)## The question stated "constant force", so why do we need to integrate? Why can't I use F dot D?

Thank you!

By the way, how do I write in limits for integration?
limits for integration: _lower ^upper , i.e. subscript, superscript . Degrees: ^\circ

F is not constant. Its magnitude is constant.

What do you mean by D ? "Why can't I use F dot D"
 
Last edited:
If by D you mean the distance element vector ##\vec {dl}## then ##F \cos(\theta)dl = \vec F . \vec D##.
 
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