Consider an ideal spring. Elastic Potential Energy Hooke’s Law
Gravitational Potential Energy Initial Final
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium For one dimensional, conservative forces Consider the force of gravity:
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium For one dimensional, conservative forces Consider the spring:
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium What does the slope of this graph represent?
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Stable Equilibrium – occurs when a small displacement results in a restoring force that accelerates the particle back towards the equilibrium position.
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Unstable Equilibrium – occurs when a small displacement results in a force that accelerates the particle away from the equilibrium position. Consider the potential energy function for a skier on the top of hill between two valleys.
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Neutral Equilibrium – occurs when a small displacement results in zero force so that the particle is again in equilibrium. Consider the potential energy function for an object on a plateau.
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Example An object has the potential energy function as given below a. Sketch the corresponding Force vs. Position graph.
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Example An object has the potential energy function as given below b. Identify all points of equilibrium. Stable Equilibrium Neutral Equilibrium
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Example An object has the potential energy function as given below Total Mechanical Energy
The Potential Energy Function & Equilibrium Example An object has the potential energy function as given below