A variable force is represented on an F-versus-x graph.Which of the following is the work done by this force?
A)the slope of the curve
B)the area bounded by the curve and the x axis
C)the area bounded by the curve and the F axis
D)the F value multiplied by the x value
E)the F value divided by the x value

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The work done by a variable force is equal to the area bounded by the curve and the x-axis. This can be seen by dividing the curve into small segments and approximating the work done by each segment as the area of a rectangle with width dx and height F(x). Summing these over all segments gives the total work, which is equal to the area bounded by the curve and the x-axis.

A Variable Force Is Represented on an F-Versus-X Graph