Finding force and equation of motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving the relationship between velocity, force, and motion of a particle along a horizontal frictionless plane, specifically given the velocity function v(x) = ax - 2. Participants are exploring how to derive the force in terms of x and the motion as a function of time when x = a.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the definition of v(x) and the specifics of the motion being analyzed. There are attempts to relate force to velocity through the equation F = m dv/dt and discussions about finding potential energy through integration. Some participants express uncertainty about how to determine the motion of the particle at a specific position and time, particularly at x = a.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and raising questions about the relationships between velocity, force, and motion. Some guidance has been offered regarding the nature of the differential equation involved, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of missing information regarding initial conditions or specific parameters needed to fully resolve the problem. Participants are also navigating the constraints of homework guidelines, which may limit the depth of their exploration.

Jared Hill
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Homework Statement


If v(x)=ax-2, then what is its force in terms of x. What is its motion as a function of time when x=a?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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What is v(x)? The motion of what are you speaking about?
Show the relevant equations and your attempt to solve the problem.
 
ehild said:
What is v(x)? The motion of what are you speaking about?
Show the relevant equations and your attempt to solve the problem.
It is the motion along a horizontal frictionless plane. I did F=m dv/dt= m dv/dx*dx/dt= -2ma2x-5
Then I fould potential energy by integration. However I could not find the motion of the particle.
 
Jared Hill said:
It is the motion along a horizontal frictionless plane. I did F=m dv/dt= m dv/dx*dx/dt= -2ma2x-5
Then I fould potential energy by integration. However I could not find the motion of the particle.
How do you specify the motion of a particle at a given time or at a given place? You give the velocity and acceleration. What are they at x=a?
 
ehild said:
How do you specify the motion of a particle at a given time or at a given place? You give the velocity and acceleration. What are they at x=a?
Sorry for the incomplete question.
If the particle starts at the position x = a, find its motion as a function of time.
 
You know that v=dx/dt. You have the equation dx/dt=ax-2 This is a very simple separable differential equation. Can you solve?
 

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