A potential energy function for a certain system is given by U₁(x) = Cx² + Bx³. The potential energy function for a second system is given by U₂(x) = A + Cx² + Bx³, where A is a positive quantity. If an object begins at the same initial position with the same initial velocity in both systems, how is the motion in the two systems related?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential energy difference between the two systems is a constant (A), which does not affect the motion since it does not change the forces acting on the object. Therefore, the motion in both systems is identical.

A Potential Energy Function for a Certain System Is Given