In: Physics
[13 marks]
(a) An object is subjected to the force F = 4x4 z ı ^ + 4 z3k ^ N, where x and z are in metres. The object can only move in the xz-plane.
(i) The object moves from the origin by moving first along the x-axis to (a, 0) and then parallel to the z-axis to the point with coordinates (a,b). How much work does the force do?
(ii) The object moves from the origin by moving first along the z-axis to (0,b) and then parallel to the x-axis to the point with coordinates (a,b). How much work does the force do?
(iii) Is this a conservative force?
(iv) Can this force be expressed as the gradient of a potential? If so, give an expression for the potential. If not, give reasons why.