Find an equation for position vs time given potential vs position?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on deriving the position vs. time equation from the potential energy equation U(x) = 4x². The force is determined by taking the derivative of the potential energy, resulting in F(x) = -8x. Applying Newton's second law, the equation m(dv/dt) = -8x is established. The user seeks clarification on integrating this equation to find the position function and its relation to a sine curve, as indicated in their textbook.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential energy equations in classical mechanics
  • Knowledge of Newton's second law of motion
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically integration techniques
  • Basic concepts of harmonic motion and sine functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the integration of differential equations to derive position functions
  • Learn about conservation of energy principles in mechanics
  • Explore harmonic motion and its mathematical representation
  • Investigate the relationship between force, acceleration, and velocity in dynamic systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying classical mechanics, physics educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mathematical relationships between potential energy, force, and motion.

razgriz129
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


If I was given the potential energy equation
[tex]U(x)=4x^2[/tex]
How would I find the equation for position vs time? I know the graph for position vs time for this equation is a sin curve because the book tells me so.

[itex]v = 0[/itex] and [itex]x = 0[/itex] when [itex]t = 0[/itex]

Homework Equations


[tex]\frac{d}{dx} U(x) = -F(x)[/tex]



The Attempt at a Solution


Taking the derivative of the potential energy equation would yield an equation of force. [tex]-F = 8x[/tex]

Using Newton's second law, we get: [tex]ma = -8x[/tex]

Replace acceleration with velocity and we get: [tex]m \frac{dv}{dt} = -8x[/tex]

I know I would integrate here twice somehow to find position in terms of time, but I'm not entirely sure how. In addition, I don't see how this position equation would have a sin function, as the book shows it should. I was hoping to find a way to solve this or learn a different approach here.

Thanks in advance.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Could you use conservation of energy here?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
6K