EXAMPLE
A force acting on a particle moving in the xy plane is given by F = (2yi + x^2j), where F is in newtons and x and y are in meters. The particle moves from the origin to a final position having coordinates x = 5.00 m and y = 5.00 m as shown in the figure to the right. Calculate the work done by F on the particle as it moves along (a) the purple path, (b) the red path and (c) the blue path. (d) Is F conservative or nonconservative? (e) Explain your answer in part (d).