It would help if you could give a few examples. Can you post 1-2 of each type of problem? In general you integrate if something is changing along the path of integration. If things are constant along the path (like pushing a block at a constant speed across a floor), then you can just use W=Fd.caspeerrr said:Homework Statement
When do you use W = Fd cos(a) and when do you use the integral of F?
Homework Equations
W = Fd cos(a) Integral of F
The Attempt at a Solution
When doing exercises it seems random to me when I have to use the formule W = fd cos(a) and when I have to use the integral? What is the consistency in this?
Thanks!
Work is defined as the product of the force applied to an object and the distance the object moves in the direction of the force. It is represented by the equation W = F * d, where W is work, F is force, and d is distance.
The unit of measurement for work is joules (J). One joule is equal to the amount of work done when a force of one newton is applied over a distance of one meter in the direction of the force.
To calculate work when the force is not constant, you can use the equation W = ∫Fdx, where F is the varying force and dx is the infinitesimal change in distance. This requires knowledge of calculus.
Yes, work can be negative. This occurs when the force and the displacement are in opposite directions, resulting in work being done against the direction of motion. For example, when a car is braking, the force is applied in the opposite direction of its motion, causing negative work to be done.
Work and energy are closely related concepts. Work is the transfer of energy from one object to another, or the change in energy of an object. The work done on an object is equal to the change in its kinetic energy, as stated by the work-energy theorem: W = ΔKE.