Missing negative sign in my textbook's answer?

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AI Thread Summary
The integration of NiAB sin(θ) from π to 0 results in -2NiAB, indicating a negative answer that reflects the work done by the external force. The textbook's omission of the negative sign is likely an error, as it does not account for the counter work performed by the battery cell. The negative sign represents the work done against the system, while the positive interpretation suggests the work done by the battery is considered. This discrepancy highlights the importance of understanding the context of work in physics problems. Clarifying these signs is essential for accurate problem-solving in physics.
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Homework Statement
A coil with N turns and area A, carrying a constant current, flips in an external field ##\vec{B}_{ext}## , so that its dipole moment switches from opposition to the field to alignment with the field. During this process, induction produces a potential difference that tends to reduce the current in the coil. Calculate the work done by the coil's power supply to maintain the constant current.
Relevant Equations
## W = \int_{\theta_{i}}^{\theta_{f}} \tau (\theta) d\theta ##
or
## U(\theta) = -NiABcos(\theta)##
the question is fairly easy to solve, integrating ##NiAB sin(\theta)## from ##\pi## to 0 or just do ##-NiAB(cos(0) - cos(\pi))## which gives you -2NiAB, but my textbook did not include the negative sign, is it mistaken?
 
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Your minus answer is the work external force did. Battery cell did minus counter work, so it is plus.
 
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