Q.

A particle is acted by a force F=kx, where k is a +ve constant. Its potential energy at x=0 is zero. Which curve correctly represents the variation of potential energy of the block with respect to x                                   [2004]

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Ans.

(2)

For conservative forces ΔU=-W

ΔU=-∫0xF dx   or   ΔU=-∫0xkx dx

⇒U(x)-U(0)=-kx22         (∵ U(0)=0)

∴ U(x)=-kx22  ⇒   x2=-2Uxk

It represents a parabola below the x-axis symmetrical.