Final answer:
The correct expression for the potential energy u(x) of a mass moving in one dimension as per the given options is b. u(x) = 2.0 j/m³ * x³ - 15 j/m² * x² + 36 j/m * x - 23 j. Option B is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The potential energy u(x) of a mass moving in one dimension with a given polynomial expression can be represented in different forms depending on the forces acting on the mass. After analyzing the given options, the correct expression is b. u(x) = 2.0 j/m³ * x³ - 15 j/m² * x² + 36 j/m * x - 23 j.
This is a polynomial of degree three, representing the potential energy as a function of the displacement x, measured in meters. The terms in the expression include coefficients with units that correspond to the respective powers of x to ensure dimensional consistency. The signs of the terms give insight into how the potential energy changes with displacement.
The expression for the potential energy u(x) of a mass moving in one dimension is:
u(x) = 2.0 j/m³ * x³ - 15 j/m² * x² + 36 j/m * x - 23 j
This expression represents the potential energy of the mass as a function of its position, with the coefficients representing the different terms in the expression.