What is the work done on a slingshot?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the work done on a slingshot, specifically focusing on the elastic force involved in the stretching process. The subject area includes concepts from mechanics and energy, particularly related to work and force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the method of calculating work, with one participant initially using a straightforward multiplication of force and distance. Others point out the need for integration due to the non-constant nature of the force involved in stretching the slingshot.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of how to calculate work in this context. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct approach to consider the variable nature of the force, but no consensus has been reached on the final method.

Contextual Notes

There is a recognition that the force exerted by the slingshot is not constant, which affects the calculation of work. Participants are also reflecting on their assumptions regarding the relationship between force and displacement.

Goofball Randy
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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



The given elastic force equation

The Attempt at a Solution



I plugged in the numbers, with 0.2m for the change in s and 45 for a. Since I knew that work was equal to force * distance, I multiplied that result by another 0.2m. This got me 0.0144J, or 14.4mJ. Since I knew that the slingshot was stretching in the direction you pull, the work had to be positive.

Unfortunately, my answer is incorrect. :(
 
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Don't forget that work is the INTEGRAL of F dot dL, not just straight multiplication!
 
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Goofball Randy said:

Homework Statement

The Attempt at a Solution



I plugged in the numbers, with 0.2m for the change in s and 45 for a. Since I knew that work was equal to force * distance, I multiplied that result by another 0.2m. This got me 0.0144J, or 14.4mJ. Since I knew that the slingshot was stretching in the direction you pull, the work had to be positive.

Unfortunately, my answer is incorrect. :(

The force is not constant, the work can not be calculated by multiplying maximal displacement with maximal force.
 
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Thanks guys! Seems really obvious now that I remember it.
 

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