A particle moves under the force `F(x) = (x^(2) - 6x)N`, where `x` is in metres. For small displacements from the origin what is the force constant in the simple harmonic motion approximation ?

Explanation

For small values of `x`, the term `x^(2)` can be neglected.
`:. F = -6x`
Comparing with `F = -kx`, we get
`k = 6N//m`