Energy conservation in two dimensions

In summary, the conversation discusses an experiment where a proton is subjected to a force of F = −αx^2i, with α = 14.4 N/m2. The question asks for the amount of work done by this force when the proton moves along different straight-line paths. The final question pertains to the potential-energy function for this force, given that U = 0 when x = 0. The formula for work done by a force is a line integral along a path. However, the method for calculating it is not mentioned in the conversation.
  • #1
SPiazzo
7
0
In an experiment, one of the forces exerted on a proton is F = −αx^2i , where α = 14.4 N/m2.
(a) How much work does F do when the proton moves along the straight-line path from the point (0.10 m, 0) to the point (0.10 m, 0.5 m)?
(b) Along the straight-line path from the point (0.09 m, 0) to the point (0.32 m, 0)?
(c) Along the straight-line path from the point (0.32 m, 0) to the point (0.09 m, 0)?
If F is conservative, what is the potential-energy function for it? Let U = 0 when x = 0. (Use the following as necessary: x and α. If F is not conservative, enter NC.)

I have no idea how to do this one, there where no relevant examples in my textbook and my teacher did not teach this in our class if we have reached the topic at all.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Hey SPiazzo! Can you write the Formulae for the Work done on an object By a force?
 
  • #3
Work is a line integral of a force along a path. Can you calculate it?
 

Related to Energy conservation in two dimensions

1. What is energy conservation in two dimensions?

Energy conservation in two dimensions is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the total amount of energy in a closed system remains constant, even as the energy is transferred and transformed between different forms. In other words, the total energy in a system will not increase or decrease, but it can be redistributed within the system.

2. How does energy conservation in two dimensions apply to real-world situations?

Energy conservation in two dimensions is applicable to many real-world situations, such as the motion of objects on a frictionless surface, the motion of planets in orbit, and the transfer of energy in simple pendulum systems. It is also crucial in understanding the behavior of complex systems, such as weather patterns and the dynamics of chemical reactions.

3. What are the key principles of energy conservation in two dimensions?

The key principles of energy conservation in two dimensions are the conservation of kinetic energy and the conservation of potential energy. According to the law of conservation of energy, the total amount of energy in a system remains constant, but this energy can be transformed from one form to another. In two dimensions, this means that the sum of the kinetic energy (energy of motion) and the potential energy (energy of position) remains constant.

4. Can energy be completely conserved in two dimensions?

According to the law of conservation of energy, the total energy in a closed system cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed. In two dimensions, energy can be redistributed between kinetic and potential forms, but it cannot be completely conserved if there is any external force acting on the system. This is because external forces can do work on the system, causing a change in the total energy.

5. How is energy conservation in two dimensions different from energy conservation in one dimension?

In one dimension, energy conservation only considers the transfer of energy along a single axis, while in two dimensions, energy can be transferred and transformed in two perpendicular axes. This means that in two dimensions, there are two separate conservation laws for kinetic and potential energy, whereas in one dimension, there is only one conservation law for total energy.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
126
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
391
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
947
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
55
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
662
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
514
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
387
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
667
Replies
11
Views
1K
Back
Top