Potential of Point Mass: Is V = -k/r + mgz?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential energy associated with a point mass subjected to a specific force in a cylindrical coordinate system. Participants are examining the relationship between force and potential energy in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the validity of a proposed potential energy equation and questioning the use of cylindrical coordinates. There is also an inquiry about the physical interpretation of the scenario involving a particle and a vertical cable.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to verify the relationship between force and potential energy, with some participants expressing uncertainty about the interpretation of the problem. There is no clear consensus, but the exploration of different interpretations is ongoing.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of using cylindrical coordinates and the assumptions that come with it, such as the nature of the force acting on the point mass.

Logarythmic
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If I have a point mass that experiences a force

[tex]\vec{F}(\vec{r}) = - \frac{k}{r^2} \vec{e_r} -mg \vec{e_z}[/tex]

is it correct that the potential is

[tex]V = - \frac{k}{r} + mgz[/tex]

??
 
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By the unit vectors used, apparently one uses the cylindric coordinates. Did you check that [itex]\vec{F}=-\nabla U[/itex] using cylindric coordinates ?

Daniel.
 
Yeah that's correct. Can I interpret this as a particle next to a vertical cable or something?
 

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