Work Force x Displacement: What Counts?

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SUMMARY

The calculation of work is defined by the formula Work = Force x Displacement, where displacement refers specifically to the distance over which the force is applied, not the total distance traveled by the object. In the example of throwing a ball, only the displacement during which the force from the hand acts is relevant for calculating work. Once the force ceases, the work done is considered to be zero, as no additional energy is imparted to the object. This principle is crucial in understanding the mechanics of work in physics.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic knowledge of physics concepts such as force and displacement
  • Familiarity with the work-energy principle
  • Ability to apply mathematical formulas in physics
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  • Study the work-energy theorem in classical mechanics
  • Learn about the implications of force and displacement in various physical systems
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  • Investigate the relationship between work, energy, and power in physics
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Work=force x displacement.

This displacement is the whole displacement that the force causes or just the displacement through which the force acts?

For eg. If we throw a ball, for calculating work should we consider whole displ or the displ through which I'm applying force.

Thanks a lot. Any kind of suggestion is welcome.
 
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hasankamal007 said:
Work=force x displacement.

This displacement is the whole displacement that the force causes or just the displacement through which the force acts?
Just the displacement through which the force acts. When the force stops acting, it goes to zero.
For eg. If we throw a ball, for calculating work should we consider whole displ or the displ through which I'm applying force.
If you are calculating the work done by your hand, then you'd use the displacement while that force is acting.
 
If it was the displacement that a force causes, then a spacecraft would be constantly increasing in energy, potentially forever.
 

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