Math Problem Statement
Find the work done by the force field F(x, y, z) =
y + z, x + z, x + y
on a particle that moves along the line segment from (1, 0, 0) to (3, 2, 4).
Solution
To find the work done by the force field on a particle moving along the line segment from to , we use the formula:
where is the path of the particle and is the differential displacement vector.
1. Parameterize the Path
The line segment from to can be parameterized as:
The velocity vector is:
2. Force Field Along the Path
Substitute the parameterized path into : Using : Thus:
3. Dot Product
The differential displacement vector is:
The dot product is: Simplify:
4. Integrate Over
The work done is:
Compute the integral: At : At : Thus:
Final Answer:
The work done by the force field is:
Would you like a breakdown of specific steps or clarification on any part of the solution?
Related Questions:
- How is the work formula derived?
- What if the force field was conservative—how would the work calculation change?
- Can you explain why parameterizing the path is essential in such problems?
- How do you determine if a force field is path-independent?
- What is the geometric interpretation of the dot product in this context?
Tip:
Always confirm the parameterization of your path aligns with the problem's constraints—it ensures accurate integration.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Vector Calculus
Line Integrals
Vector Fields
Dot Product
Formulas
Work = ∫C F · dr
Parameterized line segment r(t) = (1 + 2t, 2t, 4t)
Dot product of F(r(t)) and dr/dt
Theorems
Fundamental Theorem of Line Integrals
Suitable Grade Level
College level (Calculus III or Vector Calculus)
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