What is the relationship between force and potential energy?

In summary, the moderator inserted an image to make the problem statement visible. The equation F=-dU/dx is relevant to the question, however, it requires more context to fully understand. Another equation, W=\int_{\vec a}^{\vec b}\vec F.\vec {dx}, was also given as an example.
  • #1
ChloeYip
93
1

Homework Statement


Picture: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B39n6QfDU8f3bWY3OWxyaGZBYU0
Fig1.jpg

[Moderator: Image inserted to make problem statement visible]

Homework Equations


F=-dU/dx

The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea in this question...
The slope is always the same for the graph...
Also, i have no idea how to link the graph to the equation...

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
ChloeYip said:
F=-dU/dx
Equations have context, and are meaningless without it. In that equation, what, precisely, do all the variables represent?
Here's another equation: ##W=\int_{\vec a}^{\vec b}\vec F.\vec {dx}##, where W is the work done by a force ##\vec F##, a function of ##\vec x##, that moves from ##\vec x=\vec a## to ##\vec x=\vec b##.
See if you can apply that as x moves a little to the right and left of point a.
 

FAQ: What is the relationship between force and potential energy?

What is associated potential energy?

Associated potential energy is a type of potential energy that results from the position or arrangement of particles or objects in a system. It is often associated with the forces of gravity, electric fields, or magnetic fields.

How is associated potential energy different from other types of potential energy?

Associated potential energy is different from other types of potential energy, such as elastic potential energy or chemical potential energy, because it is not directly related to the properties of an individual object, but rather to the system as a whole.

What factors affect the amount of associated potential energy in a system?

The amount of associated potential energy in a system is affected by the mass, distance, and configuration of the particles or objects within the system. It is also influenced by the type and strength of the force acting on the system.

How is associated potential energy related to kinetic energy?

Associated potential energy and kinetic energy are two forms of energy that can be interchanged within a system. When an object or particle moves, its associated potential energy may decrease while its kinetic energy increases, and vice versa.

What are some real-world examples of associated potential energy?

One example of associated potential energy is a roller coaster at the top of a hill. As it reaches the top, it has a high amount of associated potential energy due to its position and the force of gravity. Another example is a pendulum, which has associated potential energy at the highest point of its swing as it prepares to move back towards the center.

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