Potential Energy AP Physics 1 MCQ – Exam Style Questions etc.
Potential Energy AP Physics 1 MCQ
Unit: 3. Work , Energy and Power
Weightage : 10-15%
Exam Style Practice Questions, Potential Energy AP Physics 1 MCQ
Question
The variable x represents the position of particle A in a two-particle system. Particle B remains at rest. The graph above shows potential energy U of the system as a function of x .
The x-component of the force on particle A when it is at x = 0.15 m is most nearly
(A) –20 N
(B) –2.0 N
(C) –1.0 N
(D) 2.0 N
(E) 20 N
Answer/Explanation
Ans:E
Question
An object of mass m is constrained to move along the x-axis only. It experiences a potential energy function \(U=\frac{1}{2}kx^{2}-bx\), where U is in joules and x is in meters. Which of the following represents the net force F on the object?
(A) \(b-kx\)
(B) \(kx-b\)
(C) \(\frac{kx^{3}}{6}-bx^{2}\)
(D) \(bx^{2}-\frac{kx^{3}}{6}\)
(E) \(kx+b\)
Answer/Explanation
Ans:
A—Take the negative derivative of a potential energy function to get force. Here, the force is –kx + b.