- #1
Broodwich08
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Im having trouble understanding that if i have an equation for the motion of a particle how can i find out that a constant force is being acted upon the particle? Any help would be appreciated thank you.
Solving Constant Force on Particle Motion
- Thread starter Broodwich08
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In summary, the conversation discusses how to determine if a constant force is acting upon a particle based on its equation of motion. It is explained that according to Newton's second law, constant force would result in constant acceleration. By finding the acceleration using the equation, one can determine if a constant force is present. Additionally, it is mentioned that if the equations for motion are linear, then there is no constant force acting on the particle.
- #2
K^2
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Newton's second law. Constant force would imply constant acceleration, and vice versa. If you can find acceleration, there is your answer.
- #3
askAphysicist
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Broodwich08 said:
Could you give us an example of the equations you're working with?
- #4
tiny-tim
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Welcome to PF!
Hi Broodwich08! Welcome to PF!
Just to add to what K^2 says:
if your equation is x = f(t), then the speed is f'(t), adn the acceleration is f''(t), so you need to check whether f''(t) is constant.
Hi Broodwich08! Welcome to PF!
Just to add to what K^2
says:if your equation is x = f(t), then the speed is f'(t), adn the acceleration is f''(t), so you need to check whether f''(t) is constant.
- #5
Broodwich08
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Hmm derive into accel...looks like I'm getting linear lines for x and y so there is no constant force right. They are parametric equations btw
- #6
tiny-tim
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Yes, if x and y are linear (in a parameter, s, say), then the velocity (dy/ds / dx/ds) is constant, and the acceleration is zero, so the applied force is zero.
Related to Solving Constant Force on Particle Motion
What is a constant force on particle motion?
A constant force on particle motion is a force that remains the same in magnitude and direction throughout the motion of a particle.
How do you solve for the motion of a particle with a constant force?
To solve for the motion of a particle with a constant force, you can use Newton's second law of motion, which states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. This can be expressed as a = F/m, where a is the acceleration, F is the net force, and m is the mass of the particle. You can then use kinematic equations to calculate the displacement, velocity, and time of the particle.
What are some common examples of constant forces on particle motion?
Some common examples of constant forces on particle motion include gravity, friction, and tension. For example, an object falling towards the ground experiences a constant force of gravity, while a car moving at a constant speed on a flat surface experiences a constant force of friction.
How does the direction of a constant force affect the motion of a particle?
The direction of a constant force can affect the motion of a particle in different ways. If the force is applied in the same direction as the particle's velocity, it will cause the particle to speed up. If the force is applied in the opposite direction, it will cause the particle to slow down. If the force is applied perpendicular to the particle's velocity, it will cause the particle to change direction but not speed up or slow down.
Can a particle have multiple constant forces acting on it?
Yes, a particle can have multiple constant forces acting on it. In this case, you would need to use vector addition to calculate the net force acting on the particle and then use Newton's second law to determine the resulting motion.
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