How Do You Calculate Work Done by a Variable Force from a Graph?

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rafaelpitta
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Homework Statement


Graph of force Fx in newtons against position x in metres, from x = 0 to about x = 4.5 m, with the curve rising to about 2 N near x = 2 m, then falling sharply below zero to about -2.5 N near x = 4 m.

The solutions are:
a)2,75J
b)11,4J
c)2,76m/s
d)3,5J
e)2,84m/s

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm having problemas trying to integrate to find the letter A (the work)! I just can't put the values that match with x=0 (this one I know hehehe) and x=2(this one I don't know =/ )
 
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You are correct that work done is an integral of Force with respect to distance.
As you are given a graph of F against x with squares on it, what would be the simplest way to find (estimate) the value of this integral? Say, between x=0 and x=2?