Trying to understand the relationship between Newtons, Joules and Work

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the relationship between Newtons, Joules, and work in physics. A force of 1 Newton applied over a distance of 3 meters results in 3 Joules of energy, confirming that 3 Joules of work is done on a 1 kg mass. This energy change can be used to determine the mass's velocity, which will not be 1 m/s as initially suggested. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using the correct equations, particularly the SUVAT equations, to accurately calculate acceleration and velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of work and energy
  • Knowledge of kinetic energy calculations
  • Basic understanding of SUVAT equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the SUVAT equations
  • Learn how to calculate kinetic energy and its relationship to work
  • Explore Newton's laws of motion in greater detail
  • Investigate the concepts of uniform acceleration and its implications
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamental principles of force, energy, and motion.

phleaf
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A force of 1 Newton times 3 meters, can that mean : a 1 kg mass pushed over 3 meters went from 0 to 1 m /s/s ?
 
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1 Newton x 1 meter = 1 joule

A joule is a measurement of energy. In your case, 1 Newton x 3 meters is 3 joules of energy.

Since you know the energy is 3 joules, what can you conclude about the velocity of a 1kg mass being pushed 3 meters.
 
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3 joules were needed to change the velocity from 0 to 1 m/s ?
 
You did 3 Joules of work on the mass. Energy is conserved so you know what its kinetic energy is. You can calculate its speed from that... and it won’t be 1 m/sec.

Or you can calculate the acceleration (you know the force and the mass) and use the equation that relates distance, time, and acceleration to calculate the time it took for the mass to move 3 meters. Once you have the time you can calculate its speed... and it should agree with the other speed calculation.

This would be a really good time to Google for “SUVAT equations”
 
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phleaf said:
0 to 1 m /s/s ?
Something wrong with your units there, I'm afraid - if you intended to describe uniform acceleration.
 

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