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force and PE without calculus



Hi.
In a calculus-based course, we can illustrate the relationship between force and potential energy using the concept of gradient. In an algebra/trig-based course, we can't explicitly use calculus so what's the best way to demonstrate the force/PE relationship? The brute force graphical approach and simply stating that the slope of the PE curve is indicative of the force? I was hoping for something a bit more elegant.


Cheers,
Joe

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