Question

The potential energy of a body is given by U = A – Bx² (where x is displacement). The magnitude of force acting on the particle is 

(A) constant 

(B) proportional to x 

(C) proportional to x² 

(D) Inversely proportional to x

Answer 1

Correct option: (B) proportional to x

Explanation:

PE = U = A – Bx² 

F = {(– dU) / (dx)} = {(– d) / (dx)} (A – Bx²) 

F = 2 Bx 

F ∝ x