# Why do you integrate expressions for work + (hw problems)?

1. Dec 1, 2014

### Struggle Help

• PHYSICS FORUMS RULES REQUIRE ONLY ONE PROBLEM POSTED PER THREAD.
Question:
A single conservative force acts on a 5.00-kg particle. The equation Fx = (2x + 4) N, where x is in
meters, describes this force. As the particle moves along the x axis from x = 1.00 m to x = 5.00 m,
calculate (a) the work done by this force.

Work = Force * Distance.

(2*(5-1) +4) = 12N
12N * 4 = 48J.. (The correct answer is 40J).

If we integrate the equation (?) it results in (4)^2 + 4(4) = 32J (Still wrong answer).

First of all how do you get the right answer?

Second of all (more conceptual) why do you (in general) have to integrate work expressions? In what other situations do you have to integrate equations/ expressions?

Question 2:
A person stands on a scale in an elevator. As the elevator starts, the scale has a constant reading of 591
N. As the elevator later stops, the scale reading is 391 N. Assume the magnitude of the acceleration is
the same during starting and stopping, and determine (a) the weight of the person, (b) the person’s mass,
and (c) the acceleration of the elevator.

a) 491 N
b)50.1kg
c)2m/s^2

a) We can assume the person's weight didn't change, and the magnitude of acceleration is the same during stopping and starting (albeit in different directions I'm assuming).

When the elevator starts 3 forces are affecting the scale, Fg(gravity), Fn (normal force), Fe(force of elevator). When the elevator starts Fe is 100N downwards, and when the elevators stops Fe is 100N upwards. How would I in this situation determine the weight in Newtons of the person? Take the average of the two forces, during stopping and starting?

b) 491N / 9.8m/s^2 = 50/1kg

c)Not sure how to start this.

Question 3:
The Earth rotates about its axis with a period of 24.0 h. Imagine that the rotational speed can be
increased. If an object at the equator is to have zero apparent weight, (a) what must the new period be?
(b) By what factor would the speed of the object be increased when the planet is rotating at the higher
speed?

a)1.41h

b)17.1

This question is really challenging (for me at least) so I really just expect for the teacher to go over it in class. I would appreciate it if you could patch up my misunderstandings in the first two more basic problems I have posted.

This is my first time on this forum so please forgive me for any mistakes or transgressions I may have committed. I would really appreciate any help you may offer me.

2. Dec 1, 2014

### SteamKing

Staff Emeritus
You aren't using the correct limits for your integral, which is why your calculation of work is wrong. Work = integral of Force w.r.t. distance.

In this particular case, the amount of force varies with the distance x. If the force were constant, an integral would not be necessary.

It depends. There is no way to answer this vague question.

3. Dec 1, 2014

### Struggle Help

That makes sense, thanks.

I redid the integral, trying x*(X+4)

5*(5+4) - 1*(1+4) = 40. Thanks!