Particle potential energy - acceleration?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the relationship between particle potential energy and acceleration, specifically using the equation ΔU = Uf - Ui. Participants clarify that the derivative of potential energy equals force, expressed as Fx = -dU/dx. One user calculates acceleration as -0.0011 m/s^2, questioning if this value is too small. Feedback indicates the magnitude is acceptable, but the sign of the acceleration needs reevaluation due to a misunderstanding in the derivative calculation. The conversation highlights the importance of accurately applying calculus to understand the relationship between force and potential energy.
reminiscent
Messages
131
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


UCwHlZo.png


Homework Equations


ΔU = Uf - Ui

The Attempt at a Solution


Would I have to make the left side of the equation equal to m*a*x? Is the x on the left side equal to -100 m?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What's the formal relationship between force and potential energy?
 
gneill said:
What's the formal relationship between force and potential energy?
The derivative of potential energy equals force (Fx = -dU/dx). So the derivative would turn it to be: -C/(x2). Then it's just plugging in from there, correct?
 
gneill said:
What's the formal relationship between force and potential energy?
For the acceleration, I got -0.0011 m/s^2. Does that seem too small?
 
reminiscent said:
For the acceleration, I got -0.0011 m/s^2. Does that seem too small?
The magnitude looks good but its sign is suspect. Check the details of your derivative.
 
gneill said:
The magnitude looks good but its sign is suspect. Check the details of your derivative.
Why isn't it negative, though? Since Fx = -dU/dx, wouldn't it be Fx = -(-C*-1*x-2)? It will still be negative.
 
reminiscent said:
Why isn't it negative, though? Since Fx = -dU/dx, wouldn't it be Fx = -(-C*-1*x-2)? It will still be negative.
Oops. You're quite right. My mistake. o:)
 

Similar threads

Why Does the Potential Energy Calculation for a Dipole Yield a Negative Value?
Replies
8
Views
3K
Finding the decrease in potential energy of atwood machine
Replies
1
Views
2K
Calculation of the amount of work done using potentials
Replies
5
Views
1K
Are the answer choices wrong? (electric potential energy)
Replies
10
Views
1K
Conservation of energy for a block on an incline plane
Replies
1
Views
2K
Why can we move the spring with constant speed when we apply a force?
Replies
29
Views
2K
Energy of particle in simple harmonic motion
Replies
13
Views
1K
A charged capacitor when connected to uncharged one
Replies
1
Views
1K
Using Momentum, KE and PE to solve this skier velocity problem
Replies
13
Views
2K
Potential energy of a displaced mass on a spring
Replies
3
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top