A particle moving along the -axis is subject to a net force given by (in newtons
PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics
Problem
A particle moving along the x-axis is subject to a net force given by F(x)=−10x+0.20x3 (in newtons, with x in meters). The particle is released from rest at x=0.05m. Which statement best describes the nature of its subsequent motion?
(a) The motion will be exact simple harmonic because the force is directly proportional to the displacement at this amplitude.
(b) The particle will not oscillate about the origin since the positive cubic term produces a net outward force when x>0.
(c) The motion will be nearly simple harmonic because the linear term dominates the force at the given amplitude.
(d) The motion will deviate substantially from simple harmonic motion because the linear and cubic contributions are approximately equal at x=0.05m.