Can someone explain what work total is? In my lessons it said Work total is the sum of all work & showed an example of different work being added together. An assignment after that however made me think that may not be the case... Do I need to add the work in some cases or is work always work total? If it is always work total how do I pick a formula?

Question

Thanks! :)

Anonymous · Answer

I assume that you are talking about one rigid body. Work input is basically the force times the displacement in the direction of the force. You can have more than one force acting on a body but if so, combine (add) them and only use the component in the direction of motion.
I am not familiar with your example so can not comment.

Mathmate · Answer

The best way to clear up your question is to post the assignment question, and tell us your interpretation or your doubts.

Kayla · Answer

Ok I will do, thank you :)