The discussion centers on the analysis of a force defined by its components Fx = (3 N/m)y and Fy = 0, demonstrating that this force is non-conservative. A conservative force is characterized by the conservation of mechanical work, exemplified by gravitational force, where the net work done is zero when returning to the original position. In contrast, the discussed force does not meet the criteria for conservativeness, as it fails to conserve mechanical energy, similar to friction. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the definition of conservative forces and how specific forces can be classified.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, particularly those studying mechanics, educators seeking to clarify concepts of force, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of conservative forces.
What is the condition for a force to be conservative? Does this force meet that condition?chem engineer said:Consider the motion of an object on the xy-plane. Show that the force whose x and y- components are respectivley Fx= (3N/m)y and Fy= 0 is not conservative.
Johannes said:I can't make much sense of that either, however, a conservative force is a force that convserves mechanical work, so the force can not be "lost". For example gravitational force. If you have a ball and trow it down a building ( the building in physics haven in vacuum and stuff... ) and then put it back to the exact same point, the net work done by the gravitational force is 0. In consequence it does not matter if you shoot it to the moon in between, or how much other forces move it around. A non conservative force is friction for example.
Even if the question was not copied verbatim, it is perfectly well posed and makes sense to me. In any case, the question is most definitely answerable.DyslexicHobo said:What you said doesn't really make much sense.
chem engineer said:Consider the motion of an object on the xy-plane. Show that the force whose x and y- components are respectivley Fx= (3N/m)y and Fy= 0 is not conservative.
It's funny that all of us didn't say that:chem engineer said:Its funny you guys said this question makee no sense, its copied directly from this terrible book my professor uses.
It's also funny that you have failed to respond to our questions:Hootenanny said:Even if the question was not copied verbatim, it is perfectly well posed and makes sense to me. In any case, the question is most definitely answerable.
Hootenanny said:What is the condition for a force to be conservative? Does this force meet that condition?
HallsofIvy said:So, back to you, chem engineer. What is the definition of "conservative" force. Then how does this force NOT satisfy that definition?