Net work problem with F cos theta

In summary, the given graph shows the component of net force acting on a 5.0 kg block as it moves along a flat horizontal surface. The net work done on the block can be calculated by finding the area under the graph between Fcos(theta) and s, and the final speed can be calculated using the equation vf^2 = vi^2 + 2ax. The given solution suggests a final speed of 0.8944 m/s.
  • #1
loganblacke
48
0

Homework Statement


The graph below shows the component (Fcos(theta)) of the net force that acts on a 5.0 kg block as it moves along a flat horizontal surface. Find (a) the net work done on the block and (b) the final speed of the block if it starts from rest at s = 0.

The graph shows Fcos(theta)(N) as the y-axis and s (meters) as the x-axis. The coordinates are (0,0), (1,0), (1,2), (4,2), (4,-2), (6,-2), (6,0), (8,0), connected by straight lines in that order.


Homework Equations



Work=Force*Distance*cos(theta)

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't understand what the y value represents or what values to assign for theta. Please help!
 
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  • #2
Work = Force x cos[tex]\Theta[/tex] x distance
This is the area under the given graph between Fcos[tex]\Theta[/tex] and s
 
  • #3
Fcos[tex]\Theta[/tex] is the force acting in the direction of the motion of the body.
The acceleration of the body in the direction of motion can be calculated as
Force = mass x acceleration
After finding acceleration use
vf2 = vi2 + 2ax
 
Last edited:
  • #4
A=.25/5.0=.05 m/s

Vf=sqrt(2*.05*8)=.8944 m/s^2

Thank you for your help!
 
  • #5
Thank you for giving new problem to me.:smile:
Is the answer correct?
 

FAQ: Net work problem with F cos theta

1. What is a "Net work problem with F cos theta"?

A "Net work problem with F cos theta" refers to a physics problem where the net work done on an object is calculated using the force acting on the object and the cosine of the angle between the force and the direction of motion.

2. How do you solve a net work problem with F cos theta?

To solve a net work problem with F cos theta, you need to first identify the force acting on the object and the angle between the force and the direction of motion. Then, use the formula W = Fdcos(theta) to calculate the net work done on the object.

3. What units are used to measure force and work?

Force is typically measured in Newtons (N) and work is measured in Joules (J).

4. Can the angle theta be greater than 90 degrees in a net work problem with F cos theta?

Yes, the angle theta can be greater than 90 degrees in a net work problem with F cos theta. However, the cosine of an angle greater than 90 degrees will be negative, so the net work done on the object will also be negative.

5. How is a net work problem with F cos theta different from other work problems?

A net work problem with F cos theta differs from other work problems because it takes into account the angle between the force and the direction of motion, while other work problems may only consider the magnitude of the force and distance. Additionally, the cosine of the angle can affect the sign of the net work, making it positive or negative.

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