Potential energy problem pls help

In summary, potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or state. The "potential energy problem" refers to a physics problem that involves calculating the potential energy of an object given certain parameters and variables. Potential energy is different from kinetic energy in that it is based on position or state rather than motion. Some examples of potential energy include stretched springs, raised objects, and compressed gases. Potential energy can be calculated using the formula PE = mgh, and it is useful in many real-life applications, such as generating electricity and powering mechanical systems.
  • #1
xgoodtimesx
4
0
The potential energy in space is given as a function of polar coordinates by the following:


U(r , therta) = Acos therta / r^2


Given that A = 46 N∙m3, determine the x-component of the corresponding force at the location x = 1.7 m, y = 1.2 m.

pls derive a formula to solve this equation
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Hi xgoodtimesx! :wink:

Show us what you've tried, and where you're stuck, and then we'll know how to help! :smile:
 
  • #3
Hi tim,

the problem is i don't even know where to start x_X stuck in the begining
 

FAQ: Potential energy problem pls help

What is potential energy and how is it related to the "potential energy problem"?

Potential energy is the energy an object possesses due to its position or state. The "potential energy problem" refers to a physics problem that involves calculating the potential energy of an object given certain parameters and variables.

How is potential energy different from kinetic energy?

Potential energy is the energy an object has due to its position or state, while kinetic energy is the energy an object has due to its motion. Potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy and vice versa.

What are some examples of potential energy?

Some examples of potential energy include a stretched spring, a raised object, and a compressed gas. In each of these cases, the object has the potential to do work when released or allowed to return to its original state.

How do you calculate potential energy?

The formula for potential energy is PE = mgh, where m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height or distance the object is raised. This formula can also be modified to calculate potential energy in other situations, such as a compressed spring.

How can potential energy be useful in real-life applications?

Potential energy is useful in many real-life applications, such as in hydroelectric power plants, where the potential energy of water at a higher elevation is converted into kinetic energy to generate electricity. It is also used in many mechanical systems, such as springs in watches and elastic bands in slingshots.

Similar threads

Force components for mass attached to two springs
Replies
15
Views
820
MIT OCW, 8.02 Electromagnetism: Potential for an Electric Dipole
Replies
1
Views
2K
Calculating Chemical Potential from Energy Derivatives
Replies
4
Views
1K
Misunderstanding of Gravitational Potential Energy
Replies
7
Views
3K
Why Is Work Positive When Done Against the Electric Field?
Replies
22
Views
2K
Exponential potential energy state diagram
Replies
13
Views
2K
A rocket on a spring, related to potential/kinetic energy
Replies
3
Views
2K
Time dependant Potential Energy in ion trap
Replies
1
Views
1K
Potential Energy and raising a satellite from Earth into a Circular Orbit
Replies
5
Views
2K
Potential Energy and Equilibrium Position for a Circular Trajectory
Replies
2
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top