Finding Work Done by a Force Field: A Math Problem

In summary, to find the work done by the force field on a particle traveling from A(0,0,0) to B(2,1,3) along a straight line, we can use the integral of the dot product between the force field and the differential of displacement. This can be written as the integral of the dot product of F and dl, which can be solved using a common variable of integration. This can be expressed as a function of t, allowing us to solve for the work done by the force field.
  • #1
zekester
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i have a force field F = 2xy*(ux)+(x^2-z^2)(uy)-3xz^2(uz) where ux,uy,and uz are unit vectors in the direction indicated. I have to find the work done by the field on a particle that travels from A(0,0,0) to
B(2,1,3) on a straight line. work is regarded as the integral from A to B of the dot product of F and dl = dx(ux)+dy(uy)+dz(uz). I'm not quite sure how to do this.
 
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  • #2
You can introduce a common vairable of integration to solve this.
Since
[tex] \int_{A}^{B} \vec{F}.d\vec{r} = \int_{t1}^{t2} \vec{F}.(\vec{\frac{dr}{dt}}) dt [/tex]

Where [tex]\vec{r} [/tex] (and F) can be expressed as a function of t.
 
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  • #3
ok, thanks
 

What is work done by a force field?

Work done by a force field is a mathematical concept that describes the energy exerted by a force on an object as it moves from one point to another. It is measured in joules (J) and can be calculated using the formula W = F * d, where W is the work done, F is the force applied, and d is the distance traveled.

How do you find the work done by a force field?

To find the work done by a force field, you need to know the magnitude and direction of the force, as well as the distance traveled by the object. Then, you can use the formula W = F * d to calculate the work done. It is important to note that the force and distance must be in the same direction to get an accurate result.

What is the unit of measurement for work done by a force field?

The unit of measurement for work done by a force field is joules (J). However, in some cases, it can also be expressed in newton-meters (N*m). Both units represent the amount of energy transferred by a force to an object.

Can work done by a force field be negative?

Yes, work done by a force field can be negative. This happens when the force and the displacement of the object are in opposite directions. In this case, the force is actually doing work against the motion of the object, resulting in a negative value for work done.

Why is calculating work done by a force field important?

Calculating work done by a force field is important because it helps us understand the amount of energy being transferred to an object. This information can be used to analyze the efficiency of machines, determine the power needed to perform certain tasks, and make predictions about the behavior of objects in different types of force fields.

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