Finding Work Done by a Force on a Particle Along a Triangular Path

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the work done by a force field, represented by the vector F = (5y + 3x - 6)i + (2x - y + 4)j, on a particle moving along a triangular path defined by the vertices (0,0), (4,0), and (4,3). The participant attempted to integrate the force equation but expressed uncertainty about the correctness of their method, specifically questioning the necessity of line integrals for solving the problem. The consensus is that line integrals are essential for accurately determining work done in a non-uniform two-dimensional field.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector fields and force vectors
  • Knowledge of line integrals in multivariable calculus
  • Familiarity with integration techniques in two dimensions
  • Basic concepts of work done by a force in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study line integrals in vector calculus
  • Learn about Green's Theorem and its applications
  • Explore the concept of conservative fields and potential functions
  • Practice calculating work done by forces along various paths
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Students studying physics or mathematics, particularly those focusing on vector calculus and applications of line integrals in calculating work done by forces in two-dimensional fields.

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Homework Statement


F=(5y+3x-6)i + (2x-y+4)j. find work done by the force on a particle following a triangular path with verticies (0,0),(4,0),(4,3) where the positions are given in meters.


Homework Equations


Int(F(x,y))dx*dy ? not really sure for 2 dimensional problems


The Attempt at a Solution


I integrated the force equation with respect to x and then y to obtain...
2xy(5y+3x-3)i + xy(x-(1/2)y+4)j and then calculated the work for each section of the path and added them together. i don't think its the right way to do it though. Is there a way to solve this without the need for line integrals!? Please help
 
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bump. basically i need to know how to figure out work done over a non uniform 2 dimensional field. even if it requires line integrals, if someone could walk me through it
 
nobody knows? did i phrase my question wrong or something?
 

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