Expert Tips: How to Overcome Task Confusion

Thread starter leggythegoose
Start date Mar 1, 2023

AI Thread Summary

To overcome task confusion, it's essential to demonstrate an effort in problem-solving before seeking help. Identifying relevant concepts from class or textbooks can provide a foundation for addressing the issue. Clarifying whether the problem involves calculating force instead of acceleration may simplify the approach. Engaging with the material and attempting to apply learned principles is crucial. Effective problem-solving begins with taking the first step, even if it's just outlining known information.

Mar 1, 2023

leggythegoose

New user has been reminded to always show their work on schoolwork problems.

Homework Statement: A small block with mass 0.0400 kg is moving in the xy-plane. The net force on the block is described by the potential-energy function U(x,y)=(5.80 J/m^2)x^2 − (3.90 J/m^3)y^3. What is the magnitude of the acceleration of the block when it is at the point x=0.39 m, y=0.61 m? What is the direction of the acceleration of the block when it is at the point x=0.39 m, y= 0.61 m?

Relevant Equations: Force and potential energy in 3D?

I have no idea how to do this honestly.

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Mar 1, 2023

TSny

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Gold Member

leggythegoose said:

I have no idea how to do this honestly.

In order to receive help you must show some attempt at solving the problem. If you can't get started, can you identify anything that you have covered in class or in your book that you believe would be relevant to this problem? Would the problem be easier if they had asked for the force on the particle rather than the acceleration?

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