Problem 2-1D motion and potential energy A point particle with mass M is subject to a conservative force, F(x), directed along the x-axis. The potential energy associated with this force is U(x) = a/x². b/x, with a and b positive parameters. (a) Find the value x-xo corresponding to the equilibrium point and discuss whether this is a stable or unstable equilibrium. Sketch a graph of U(x). (b) Find the value, Emin, of the mechanical energy and show that Emin is negative. Find the minimum and maximum values of x reached by the particle for negative values of the mechanical energy such that Emin < E<0. (c) Assuming that the point particle stays all the time very close to xo, obtain an expression for the frequency of small oscillations around the equilibrium point.
Problem 2-1D motion and potential energy A point particle with mass M is subject to a conservative force, F(x), directed along the x-axis. The potential energy associated with this force is U(x) = a/x². b/x, with a and b positive parameters. (a) Find the value x-xo corresponding to the equilibrium point and discuss whether this is a stable or unstable equilibrium. Sketch a graph of U(x). (b) Find the value, Emin, of the mechanical energy and show that Emin is negative. Find the minimum and maximum values of x reached by the particle for negative values of the mechanical energy such that Emin < E<0. (c) Assuming that the point particle stays all the time very close to xo, obtain an expression for the frequency of small oscillations around the equilibrium point.
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In this question I don’t understand why they integrated U(x) what’s the purpose behind that and then part b if you can explain it in steps please because their explanation doesn’t make sense
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Step 1: Give data:
VIEWStep 2: a) Determination of x=x0 corresponding to the equilibrium point:
VIEWStep 3: Explanation of stable and unstable equilibrium:
VIEWStep 4: Sketch of U(x) vs x:
VIEWStep 5: (b) Determination of minimum value of mechanical energy:
VIEWStep 6: Calculation of minimum and maximum values of x for E(min)<E<0:
VIEWStep 7: Calculation of frequency of small oscillation about equilibrium position:
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