Graphing the work done by a force along paths

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the work done by a two-dimensional force along various paths from the origin to the point P(1,1). The force is defined as F = (x^2, 2xy), and the paths include moving along the x-axis, following the curve y = x^2, and using a parametric equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster has completed the calculations for the work done along the specified paths but is seeking guidance on how to graph these paths using available software, specifically Excel. Some participants suggest that hand graphing is an option, while the original poster notes a restriction against hand-drawn graphs.

Discussion Status

The conversation is focused on finding suitable methods for graphing the paths rather than the calculations of work done. Participants have provided suggestions for software alternatives, including GNU Octave and other mathematical scripting packages, while also questioning the original poster's familiarity with Excel for graphing.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a specific requirement from their professor that prohibits hand-drawn graphs, which adds a constraint to the discussion about graphing methods.

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Homework Statement



Evaluate the work done
W = op∫ F[itex]\bullet[/itex]dr

By the two dimensional force F = (x2, 2xy) along the following paths from the
origin to the point P(1,1):
1) This path goes along the x-axis to the point Q(1,0) and then directly up to
the point P(1,1).
2) Along the path y = x2.
3) Along the path given by the parametric equation x = t3 and y = t2.
4) Plot each of these paths on the same graph.


I'm actually done parts 1 through 3. I'm just kind of lost as to how to graph something like this. The only software I really have at my disposal is excel. Any ideas?

I know this is a little vague, but my knowledge with graphing software is pretty terrible.
 
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You should be able to graph it by hand.
 
Simon Bridge said:
You should be able to graph it by hand.

I would, but my prof has specifically stated that it can't be a hand drawn graph.
 
Oh right - you can do it in a spreadsheet, but if you are going to have to do this sort of thing a lot you should consider a math script package.

GNU Octave is free-gratis and free-libre and does lots of what you want.
Matlab and Mathematica are popular, and iirc there is a version of mathematica as cloudware.

What si it you are having trouble with?
Do you just not know how to make a graph in Excel?
 

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