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.
omarMihilmy
Messages
31
Reaction score
0
ImageUploadedByPhysics Forums1387442898.459376.jpg
ImageUploadedByPhysics Forums1387442917.808617.jpg
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?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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?
 
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'
TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'
The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
Back
Top