The potential energy of a particle moving along the -axis is

PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Work Energy and Power · Work Energy and Power

Problem

The potential energy of a particle moving along the

x

-axis is

V(x)=V_0+\dfrac{1}{2}k x^{2}

, where

k>0

and

V_0

is a constant. Which statement about the force on the particle and the nature of equilibrium at

x=0

is correct? (a) Force is zero at

x=0

and the equilibrium is neutral. (b) Force is non-zero at

x=0

and the equilibrium is unstable. (c) Force is zero at

x=0

and the equilibrium is stable. (d) Force is zero at

x=0

and the equilibrium is unstable.