Question

A potential function is given by U(x) = 14 x^2. What will be the acceleration (in meters/second ^2) of a 5.00 kg mass, when it is at the position x = 0.600 m? what I have so far in the comments

Answer 1

i took the derivative of 14x^2 first. Aren't you supposed to do (1/2mv1^2-1/2mv2^2)?

Answer 2

you are asked for the acceleration.

so you are right to differential the potential function. that derivative is the field equation or field function. and that typically gives force per unit mass or charge in the field.

so you now have all you need just to apply F = ma.