Power in Fv: Is it Given by $\vec{F} \cdot \vec{v}$?

In summary, power in Fv is a physical quantity measured in watts that represents the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred. It is calculated by multiplying force and velocity, with the dot product used to calculate the parallel component of the force. The direction of the force and velocity vectors affects the value of power, and it has many real-life applications in fields such as engineering and sports.
  • #1
Mandelbroth
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Is power given by [itex]\vec{F} \cdot \vec{v}[/itex], or just [itex]Fv[/itex]?

I'm thinking it can be both if the velocity and force vectors are parallel, but I'm not sure...
 
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  • #2
If vector [itex]\vec{F}[/itex] happens to be in the same direction as [itex]\vec{v}[/itex] then [itex]\vec{F}\cdot\vec{v}= |\vec{F}||\vec{v}|[/itex] which is what I think you mean by "Fv". In general, of course, they are not in the same direction and you must use [itex]\vec{F}\cdot\vec{v}[/itex].
 

FAQ: Power in Fv: Is it Given by $\vec{F} \cdot \vec{v}$?

What is power in Fv?

Power in Fv is a physical quantity that measures the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred. It is represented by the symbol P and is measured in watts (W).

How is power calculated in Fv?

Power in Fv is calculated by multiplying the force (F) applied to an object by its velocity (v). Mathematically, it can be represented as P = F * v or P = F * cosθ * v, where θ is the angle between the force and velocity vectors.

What is the significance of the dot product in Fv?

The dot product (·) is used to calculate the component of the force vector that is parallel to the velocity vector. This is important because only the component of the force that is parallel to the velocity vector contributes to the work done and thus, the power. The dot product helps us to calculate this component efficiently.

Does power in Fv depend on the direction of the force and velocity vectors?

Yes, power in Fv does depend on the direction of the force and velocity vectors. This is because the dot product considers the angle between these two vectors in its calculation. Changing the angle will result in a different value for the power.

What are some real-life applications of power in Fv?

Power in Fv has numerous real-life applications, including calculating the power output of engines, determining the power needed to lift an object, and understanding the power needed to move objects in various machines. It is also used in sports, such as calculating the power generated by a pitcher's throw in baseball.

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