Single-Molecule Audit

Cycle Work Is a Difference

A loading cycle keeps forward, return, and net work as separate checked quantities. Exact arithmetic here means exact results for the stated model inputs; measured inputs still carry uncertainty and significant-figure limits.

highlighted = computed this step

A loading path can store forward work

The forward path carries 36 joules of work.

3636
Cycle work differenceForward and return areas leave a checked net work.forwardreturnnet

Cycle work is forward minus return

Returning 18 joules leaves net work 18 joules.

36−18=1836\mathbin{-}18=18
Cycle work differenceForward and return areas leave a checked net work.forwardreturnnet