Find velocity as a function of position x

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the velocity as a function of position for a particle of mass m under the influence of a force defined by F(x) = Fo + cx. The participant correctly identifies that acceleration a(x) can be expressed as a(x) = F(x)/m. However, the key insight provided is the realization that acceleration can also be expressed as a = (dv/dx)v, leading to a separable differential equation that can be solved to find the velocity function.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law: F = ma
  • Knowledge of calculus, specifically integration and differential equations
  • Familiarity with the concept of separable differential equations
  • Basic physics concepts related to motion and forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of velocity from acceleration using the chain rule in calculus
  • Learn how to solve separable differential equations in physics contexts
  • Explore the implications of force functions like F(x) = Fo + cx on particle motion
  • Investigate numerical methods for solving differential equations if analytical solutions are complex
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying mechanics, as well as educators and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of motion under variable forces.

KiNGGeexD
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I am trying to find the velocity as a function of position for a particle of mass m that starts from rest and has a force acting on it equal to
F(x)= Fo+cx

My lecturer said that this would be an easy problem to solve but for whatever reason I am having trouble!

I have got as far as to say that

F(x)=m a(x)

So surely a(x)=F(x)/m

Then do I possibly integrate with respect to dx?
 
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KiNGGeexD said:
I am trying to find the velocity as a function of position for a particle of mass m that starts from rest and has a force acting on it equal to
F(x)= Fo+cx

My lecturer said that this would be an easy problem to solve but for whatever reason I am having trouble!

I have got as far as to say that

F(x)=m a(x)

So surely a(x)=F(x)/m

Then do I possibly integrate with respect to dx?

Integrating adx will not give you a velocity. Integrating adt would but that's not going to lead anywhere. You start by realizing a=dv/dt=(dv/dx)(dx/dt)=(dv/dx)v. If you use that then you get a separable differential equation in the variables v and x. Solve it.
 

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