How to calculate work when force changes constantly across a distance
In short: When force is not constant, you cannot simply multiply force by distance. This video explains how to use calculus to determine work done by variable forces, a fundamental concept for AP Physics students.
When a force varies with position, calculating work requires summing infinitesimal contributions along the object's path. This is achieved using a line integral from the initial to the final position.
For motion in one dimension, the work done is equivalent to the area under the curve on a graph plotting the parallel component of force against position.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Work done by forces (part 2) | AP Physics | Khan Academy
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