Finding work done on object with a chnaging force

AI Thread Summary
To find the work done on a 5.0 kg object with a position function x = 3.0t - 4.0t^2 + 1.0t^3, the velocity is derived as v = 3 - 8t + 3t^2. The user calculated velocities at t = 0 and t = 2 seconds but arrived at an incorrect work value of 20 Joules using the equation W = 0.5m(v^2 - vo^2). The discussion emphasizes the importance of careful sign management in calculations. The correct approach requires revisiting the force and integrating it over the specified time interval to accurately determine the work done.
emilykorth
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Homework Statement



A single force acts on a 5.0 kg particle-like object in such a way that the position of the object as a function of time is given by x = 3.0t - 4.0t ^2 + 1.0t ^3, with x in meters and t in seconds. Find the work done on the object by the force from t = 0 to t = 2.0 s.



Homework Equations



W=Fd

The Attempt at a Solution


I started by finding the derivative of x = 3.0t - 4.0t ^2 + 1.0t ^3 which would be the velovity of the particle like object. (v=3-8t+3t^2)Then I plugged in 0 for when time=0 to find the velocity and then plugged in 2 for t to find the velocity when t=2 seconds. I then used the equation W=.5m(v^2-vo^2) to find that W=20 Joules however this was wrong
What am I doing wrong?
 
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Be careful with signs.
 
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