Physics · WORK, ENERGY AND POWER

A particle moves in a conservative force field where the potential energy function is given by \( V(x) = \frac{a}{x^2} - \frac{b}{x} \), where \( a \) and \( b \) are positive constants. The magnitude of the force acting on the particle at its stable equilibrium position is:

1. A
   \( \frac{b^2}{2a} \)
2. B
   \( \frac{b^2}{4a} \)
3. C
   \( \frac{b^3}{8a^2} \)
4. D
   \( 0 \)