Question

In a certain field, the potential energy is U =
$a {x}^{3 } - b {x}^{3}$
where a and b constants. The particle is in stable
equilibrium at x equal to
(1) Zero
(2)a/3b
(3)2a/3b
(4)2a/b​

Answer 1

Stable state corresponds to minimum potential energy. This is possible when x = 0. So, option (1) should be the answer.