Force & Work: Understanding the Calculus Behind it All

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between pounds as a unit of force and mass in the context of calculus, specifically referencing "Early Transcendentals 5e" by Stewart. Pounds are defined as a unit of force, while slugs serve as the unit of mass in the English system. The term "pound-weight" is used to denote the gravitational force exerted by a pound, which is crucial for understanding the example provided. The confusion arises from the dual definition of pounds, which has evolved over time.

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  • Understanding of basic calculus concepts
  • Familiarity with units of measurement in physics
  • Knowledge of the English system of units
  • Basic principles of force and mass
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  • Study the definitions and differences between force and mass in physics
  • Explore the concept of pound-weight and its applications
  • Review examples of work calculations in calculus
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Students of calculus, physics enthusiasts, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone seeking clarity on the relationship between force and mass in the English measurement system.

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I am reading over an explanation of Work in my calculus textbook (Early Trancendentals 5e - Stewart). The following example has me confused. Why are pounds treated as a force and not a mass?

http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/8987/forceandwork6ok.jpg
 
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because lbs are a unit of force. the slug is the unit of mass for the english system
 
The pound has actually been officially defined as a unit of mass, even though I believe it was used as a unit of force a long time ago. Nowadays the term pound-weight is used to refer to the gravitational force exerted by a pound, and if you notice the main question states "20-lb weight" to specify this, even though it neglects to be so specific in the rest of the text.
 

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