Tutorial 4: PHY101 (MONSOON 2022)

3. A body of mass m is moving along the x-axis. Its potential energy is

𝑈(𝑥) = 𝑏(𝑥 2 − 𝑎2 )2

where 𝑏 = 2 𝐽𝑚−4 and a = 1 m.

(i) Find the equilibrium points. Which of these equilibrium points correspond to stable
equilibrium?
(ii) Show the variation of potential energy as a function of x (qualitatively).
(iii) Find x-component of the force from the potential energy
(iv) Suppose, the body starts with zero speed at x = 4a. What is its speed at x = 0 and at x = -
a?

4. A block of mass M slides along a horizontal table with speed v0. At x = 0 it hits a spring with
spring constant k and begins to experience a friction force, as indicated in the sketch. The
coefficient of friction is variable and is given by μ = bx, where b is a constant. Find the distance
l the block travels before coming to rest.