View Full Version : Determing U(x) from Force
eku_girl83
Oct20-05, 12:50 PM
A particle is under the influece of a force F=-kx+kx^3/(a^2), where k and a are constants and k is positive. Determine U(x) and discuss the motion. What happens when E=1/4 (k a^2)?
I know F = - grad U, but how do I use this fact to set up the problem?
Can someone help me to get started?
Thanks!
Galileo
Oct20-05, 02:08 PM
This is a one-dimensional problem, so no need for gradients. Just F=-dU/dx
So start by finding (a) U(x).
Gokul43201
Oct20-05, 02:09 PM
A particle is under the influece of a force F=-kx+kx^3/(a^2), where k and a are constants and k is positive. Determine U(x) and discuss the motion. What happens when E=1/4 (k a^2)?
I know F = - grad UIn one-dimension, that's F(x) = -dU(x)/dx. Now what can you do to express U(x) in terms of F(x) ?
Edit : Started before Galileo's post was up...now redundant as it's saying the same thing.
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