Where Is the Lennard-Jones Potential Minimized?

terp.asessed
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Homework Statement


At what distance r is the Lennard Jones potential minimized?

Homework Equations


Typical graph of Lennard Jones potential, U(r) vs. r/σ

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought that from looking at the graph, r = ∞ for potential minimization. However, the answer turned out to be (2)1/6σ. Could someone explain?
 
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terp.asessed said:
I thought that from looking at the graph, r = ∞ for potential minimization.
Why? Zero is not the minimum.

However, the answer turned out to be (2)1/6σ. Could someone explain?
You should have the function definition given somewhere. Finding the minimum is simple mathematics.
 
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