Eff. Pot. Homework: Struggling with Algebra

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving problem 5 related to effective potential in algebra. The user correctly identifies the condition for maximum effective potential by setting the derivative dU/dr to zero, leading to the equation r_m^{n-2} = \frac{n*\alpha }{m \rho^2 v^2}. After rearranging, they derive r_m = (\frac{n*\alpha }{m \rho^2 v^2})^{1/(n-2)}. The user encounters difficulty simplifying the resulting expression but ultimately realizes the error lies in misapplying the exponent, clarifying that it should be n^(-1) instead of n^{2/n}.

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  • Understanding of algebraic manipulation and equations
  • Familiarity with concepts of effective potential in physics
  • Knowledge of derivatives and their applications
  • Basic understanding of variables such as m, n, α, ρ, and v
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  • Study the concept of effective potential in classical mechanics
  • Learn about derivatives and their role in optimization problems
  • Practice algebraic simplification techniques
  • Explore the implications of dimensional analysis in physics equations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and algebra, as well as educators looking for examples of problem-solving in effective potential scenarios.

roeb
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Homework Statement



I am trying to do problem 5, I seem to be having a hard time with the algebra.
http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4224/landau.th.png

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



To find maximum value of the effective potential we just do: dU/dr = 0.
I get (which I have verified to be correct)
[tex]r_m^{n-2} = \frac{n*\alpha }{m \rho^2 v^2}[/tex]

I rearrange that into
[tex]r_m = (\frac{n*\alpha }{m \rho^2 v^2})^{1/(n-2)}[/tex]

Plugging that into the Ueff equation for r, I get (and simplifying a bit, let x = n/(n-2) ).

[tex]\frac{m^x v^{2x} \rho^{2x}}{2 n^{2x/n} \alpha^{2x/n}} - \frac{\alpha m^x v^{2x} \rho^{2x}}{n^x \alpha^x}[/tex]

At this point I kind of get stuck, I can do the following, but it never seems to turn out 'right'.

[tex]\frac{m^x v^{2x} \rho^{2x}}{\alpha^x n^x} ( \frac{1}{2 \alpha^{2/n} n^{2/n}} - a)[/tex]

Anyone know what I am doing wrong? it must be something simple because I am getting very close to the correct answer, it's just those terms on the right don't seem to become 'nice'.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Whoops, I seem to have figured it out, apparently it's n^(-1) not n^2/n
 

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