How Do You Calculate the X-Component of Force from Potential Energy?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the x-component of force from potential energy for a particle, with specific reference to values at various positions along the x-axis. The subject area involves concepts of potential energy and force in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the derivative of potential energy with respect to position to find force, specifically mentioning the formula -dU/dx. There are questions about the accuracy of calculations at specific points, particularly at x = 5 cm and x = 25 cm.

Discussion Status

Some participants are exploring the relationship between potential energy and force, while others are questioning the correctness of their calculations. There is acknowledgment of potential issues related to the units used on the x-axis, and some guidance is offered regarding the method to apply at different points.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with a specific graph of potential energy, which is linked but not visible in the discussion. There are indications of confusion regarding unit conversions and the interpretation of the graph's slope.

sracks
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A particle has the potential energy shown in the figure. See link below. What is the x-component of the force on the particle at x =5, 15, 25, and 35 cm?

All answers are in N

http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/4988/figure2vn4.jpg

i know i should be using -dU/dx
but i keep getting the wrong answers when x = 5 cm
I get F = 1N
 
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Did you take into account the fact that the x-axis is marked in cm?
 
oh, thank you :-p
 
I'm actually having trouble when x = 25 cm. Is there any advice on how to figure it out?
 
sracks said:
I'm actually having trouble when x = 25 cm. Is there any advice on how to figure it out?

-dU/dx means the slope of U-r graph
slope of U-r graph between 20cm-40cm are the same.
 
sracks said:
I'm actually having trouble when x = 25 cm. Is there any advice on how to figure it out?
Use the same method used at x = 5 cm.
 

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