Potential Energy: Differentiating to Find Force

AI Thread Summary
To find the force from potential energy, the correct approach is to differentiate the potential energy function U with respect to position x, yielding dU/dx = 9x^2 - 7. Concerns were raised about the presence of the negative term and the j component in the differentiation. The relevant equation for force derived from potential energy is F = -dU/dx, indicating that the force is the negative gradient of potential energy. Additionally, it was noted that the y-component should not be disregarded during differentiation. Clarification on these points is essential for accurate problem-solving in physics.
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To find the force we will differentiate the function with respect to x (dx)
My problem is with the solution
If we differentiate:
dU/dx = 9x^2 - 7

From where does the negative come from also the j component?
 
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You should have used the homework template, then you have written the relevant equations. What equation is relevant for finding force from potential energy?
 
F = dU/dx
 
That is not correct.
 
Correct me if I am wrong
 
Why are you disregarding the y-component when you differentiate?
 
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