Exploring Scalar Work in Opposite Directions

In summary, scalar work is a type of work that involves the movement of an object in a straight line and is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the force applied by the distance the object moves. It is different from vector work as it only takes into account the magnitude of the force and distance, and can be positive or negative. Opposite directions in scalar work refer to the direction of the force applied and the direction of the object's movement, resulting in negative scalar work. In opposite directions, scalar work is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the force applied by the distance the object moves in the opposite direction, resulting in a negative value. Some real-life examples of scalar work in opposite directions include pushing a box up a ramp, pulling a sled
  • #1
Misr
385
0
hello people ,

We know that work done is scalar because it’s the product of two vector quantities so it needs only magnitude to be defined.
But look …W = Fd cos theta
When the acting force is in the opposite direction to displacement then theta=180

Therefore the work done becomes negative in this case so work is affected by the directions and its scalar so how?
 
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  • #2
Would you like to draw a sketch of a force with its point of application being moved 180 to its line of action?

You should see the answer immediately.
 

Related to Exploring Scalar Work in Opposite Directions

1. What is scalar work?

Scalar work is a type of work that involves the movement of an object in a straight line, without any change in direction. It is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the force applied to an object by the distance the object moves in the direction of the force.

2. How is scalar work different from vector work?

Scalar work only takes into account the magnitude of the force and the distance moved, while vector work also takes into account the direction of the force. This means that scalar work can be positive or negative, while vector work can only be positive.

3. What is meant by "opposite directions" in the context of scalar work?

Opposite directions in scalar work refer to the direction of the force applied and the direction of the object's movement. This means that the force and movement are in opposite directions, resulting in negative scalar work.

4. How is scalar work calculated in opposite directions?

In opposite directions, scalar work is calculated by multiplying the magnitude of the force applied by the distance the object moves in the opposite direction of the force. This results in a negative value for scalar work.

5. What are some real-life examples of scalar work in opposite directions?

Some examples of scalar work in opposite directions include pushing a box up a ramp (force applied upwards, but box moves in the opposite direction), pulling a sled downhill (force applied backwards, but sled moves forwards), and a person walking with a backpack (force applied backwards, but person moves forwards).

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