Gradiant question involving potenetial energy

[turlisk]

Homework Statement

Given the following 2D-position Vector and potential energy function determine the force vector for the object.

Homework Equations

vector r = <45.0, -20.4> m
PE(x,y) = -5.2x + 10.9y + 3.9 (j)

The Attempt at a Solution

I've attempted to make a solution but i can can't come up with an equation for solving this, the only guideline i have is an equation on a 1D problem and it has epsilon involved. I am not really sure what are the steps used to solve this equation.


any and all help would be appreciated.
Thanks!

 

[Dick]

Isn't the force just the negative of the gradient of the potential energy? Look up the definition of the gradient vector. I think in this case it's doesn't even depend on position.