Finding Force From Potential Energy

[Diff.Ed]

Homework Statement

The potential energy of two neutral molecules may be modeled using the Lennard Jones potential,
U(x)=U_0(\frac{\sigma^{12}}{x^{12}} - \frac{\sigma^6}{x^6})
where U_0 and \sigma are positive constants and x is the distance between the two molecules.

a) Find the force at an arbitrary point x ?

Homework Equations

conservative forces and potential energy

The Attempt at a Solution

F(x) = -\frac{dU}{dx}= U_0(12\frac{\sigma^{12}}{x^{13}} - 6\frac{\sigma^6}{x^7})

Is my answer correct ?

 

[gneill]

Looks fine.