Figure 7.22a shows the potential energy function for the force F_x= -kx. Sketch the potential energy function for the force F_x= +kx. For this force, is x = 0 a point of equilibrium? Is this equilibrium stable or unstable? Explain.

Figure 7.22a

Elastic potential energy and force as functions of x

Transcribed Image Text:

U = kr U F, = -kx For x > 0, F, < 0; force pushes body toward x = 0. F, = dx х х For x < 0, F, > 0; force pushes body toward x = 0. Potential energy is a minimum at x = 0.