Potential energy graph x-component

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the x-component of the force acting on a particle based on a potential energy graph. Participants are exploring the relationship between potential energy and force in a one-dimensional context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand how to derive the x-component of force from the potential energy graph, with some questioning the initial assumption that the force is simply the slope of the graph. There is mention of a formula relating force to the derivative of potential energy.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the relationship between force and potential energy, suggesting the use of derivatives to find the slope at specific points. There is acknowledgment of the need to consider the direction of the slope in relation to the force.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that the discussion is limited to one-dimensional analysis, and participants are focusing on specific x-coordinates to evaluate the force.

psingh
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What is the x-component of the force on the particle at x=5, 15, 25, and 35 cm

i thought it was just the slope?!? but I am wrong ,some help?

x=15 i know F=0
 

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psingh said:
What is the x-component of the force on the particle at x=5, 15, 25, and 35 cm

i thought it was just the slope?!? but I am wrong ,some help?

x=15 i know F=0


so close!

there's a formula that should be in your text:

|F| = - dU/dx. (direction is along the x-axis.)

(if, like in this problem, we are only concerned with one dimension.)

in three dimensions, F = - grad U
 
oye you're right neg. slope =] thankss
 
In differential form , the relation is fiven by

[itex]F = \frac{-dU}{dR}[/itex]

Just find the slope of the tangents at each of the given x-coordinates . The answer will be positive or negative depending on whether Potential is decreasing or increasing at that point.

BJ
 
Last edited:

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