A particle travels along the x-axis from to

PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials

Problem

A particle travels along the x-axis from

x=0

x=12\,\text{m}

. It experiences a constant force of

15\,\text{N}

in the

+x

direction from

x=0

x=a

and a constant force of

-10\,\text{N}

from

x=a

x=12\,\text{m}

. (a) Write an algebraic expression for the total work done on the particle in terms of the unknown distance

a

. (b) Determine the value of

a

for which the net work done over the entire

12\,\text{m}

path is zero. (c) Explain physically what it means for the net work to be zero in this situation, referring to the geometry of the force–displacement representation.

Related theory

Variable Forces & Graphical Methods
Work by Constant Forces
Work done by a constant force
Work, Energy and Power
Work and energy
Work done by a variable force

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