The first graph shows the potential energy U(x) for a particle moving on the x axis. Which of the following five graphs correctly gives the force F exerted on the particle?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The force on the particle is equal to the negative gradient of the potential energy, which means the force is the steepest slope of the potential energy graph. In this case, the steepest slope occurs at x = 1, where the potential energy curve changes direction. This corresponds to Choice D, where the force is greatest and negative at x = 1.

The First Graph Shows the Potential Energy U(x) for a Particle