Force Law for 2D Motion with Const a,b,w: F = F(r)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a body of mass m moving in two dimensions under the influence of a force F, with a specified trajectory described by r(t) = aCos(wt)x^ + bSin(wt)y^. The participants are exploring the relationship between this trajectory and the corresponding force law F = F(r), noting that the motion describes an ellipse but is not governed by Newton's Law of Gravitation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of Newton's second law of motion and its derivation in the context of the given trajectory. Questions arise about how to transition from the general form of Newton's second law to the specific trajectory equation provided.

Discussion Status

Some participants are attempting to clarify the derivation process and express confusion regarding the application of Newton's second law to the specific trajectory. There is an acknowledgment of the need for further explanation and detail in understanding the relationship between force and the motion described.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the derivation steps and the implications of the trajectory equation, indicating a need for more foundational understanding of the concepts involved.

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A body of mass m moves under the influence of a force F in two dimensions. It has an trajectory
r(t) = aCos(wt)x^ + bSin(wt)y^

a = alpha
b = beta
w = omega, they are not a, b, and w in alphabet
x^,y^: vector unit

a,b,w are constant. Find the force law F = F(r) which corresponds to this motion (This trajectory is an ellipse, but not Keplerian ellipse. Newton's Law of Gravitaion is not the force law you seek here).
 
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Hint: Newton's second law of motion.
 
Can you explain more in detail, it still confuses me. How do we derive the fomular of Newton's Second Law F=ma to this kind of fomular:confused:
 
Well we have;

[tex]\vec{F} = m\vec{a}[/tex]
[tex]\vec{F} = m\frac{d\vec{v}}{dt}[/tex]
[tex]\vec{F} = m\frac{d^2\vec{r}}{dt^2}[/tex]

Can you go from here?
 
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I have to admit that I'm stupid, I know the Newton's Second Law. But how to get to r(t) = aCos(wt)x^ + bSin(wt)y^
 
What does [tex]m\frac{d^2\vec{r}}{dt^2}[/tex] mean to you?
 
My god man! I've forgot my d's! Duly corrected ...
 

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