To calculate work done from a graph

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of work done and why it may sometimes be negative. The answer explains that when the displacement and force act in opposite directions, the work done will be negative. This is because the force is negative in that region, pointing opposite to the displacement. It is also mentioned that the value of the force may increase in the negative region, but this does not affect the negative work done. The conversation concludes by stating that as long as the force and displacement are in opposite directions, the work done will be negative.
  • #1
esha
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In the given question part (a) I don't understand why the work done is negative? The answer says that the displacement is along positive x direction (i understand that) while force acting on the particle is along negative x direction ( why is that? since it appears that as the value of x is increasing so is the value of force. )
 
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  • #2
esha said:
while force acting on the particle is along negative x direction
The value of the force is negative in that region, thus it points opposite to the displacement.
 
  • #3
So it means that it doesn't matter doesn't matter whether the force is increasing or not in the negative region the force is increasing or not in the negative region
 
  • #4
esha said:
So it means that it doesn't matter doesn't matter whether the force is increasing or not in the negative region the force is increasing or not in the negative region
Right. As long as the force and displacement are in opposite directions, the work done by the force will be negative.
 
  • #5
oh... ok... its so fairly simple then
 

What is "work" and how is it related to a graph?

Work is a measure of the energy transferred to an object by a force. It is related to a graph by representing the area under a force vs. displacement curve.

How can I calculate work from a graph?

You can calculate work from a graph by finding the area under the curve using the trapezoidal rule or by using the formula W = F*d, where W is work, F is force, and d is displacement.

What units are used to measure work?

The SI unit for work is joule (J), but other commonly used units include foot-pound (ft-lbf) and calorie (cal).

Can work be negative?

Yes, work can be negative if the force and displacement are in opposite directions. This indicates that work is being done against the force.

Are there any limitations to calculating work from a graph?

Yes, calculating work from a graph assumes that the force is constant and that the graph is a straight line. If the force varies or the graph is not a straight line, a more precise method of calculation is needed.

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