All questions
AP Physics C: Mechanics
3.3 Potential Energy
AdvancedMCQConceptual16.3k
A bare Cartesian coordinate system showing potential energy U on the vertical axis and position x on the horizontal axis. A single smooth, solid curve represents U(x). The curve crosses the horizontal axis at a point labeled x_0 with a steep negative slope, passing continuously from positive values of U for x less than x_0 to negative values of U for x greater than x_0. A solid dot marks the intersection point at (x_0, 0). The origin is labeled O. No other labels, gridlines, arrows, or text appear.
Graph of potential energy \(U\) versus position \(x\).
A particle constrained to move along the \(x\)-axis is subject to a single conservative force described by the potential energy function \(U(x)\). At position \(x = x_0\), the potential energy is zero (\(U(x_0) = 0\)), yet the particle experiences a non-zero instantaneous acceleration as it passes through this position. Which of the following statements provides the correct physical explanation for this observation?

Log In to Continue

Accounts are free! Log in to try this question, see explanations, save progress, and more!

Similar Questions

Tools for a 5

The Quiz Lab library of AP Physics quizzes AP aligned mock tests to help you get a 5. With grading, adaptive explanations, and more. Find a Quiz Find, solve, and grade every AP FRQ ever. Find an FRQ Stuck on AP Physics C: Mechanics? Get unstuck with an AP specialist.1 to 1 tutors who know the exam inside out. Understand weeks of material in a single session.Find a Tutor Learn AP Physics from scratch, quickly. This is the only course you'll need for the year. A self-paced course with everything you need to get a 5. Trusted by over 15,000 students and 200+ schools. Learn fast, or we'll refund your purchase, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Explore the Course