Potential energy ( V ) versus distance ( x ) is given by the graph. Rank various regions as per the magnitudes of the force (F) acting on a particle from high to low.

Step-by-step solution

Force is related to potential energy by F = - dV dx . Magnitude of force |F| = | dV dx | = |slope of V-x graph| From graph coordinates: A(1, 0), B(1.5, 1), C(2, 4), D(4, 4), E(5, 3) |F_ AB | = 1-0 1.5-1 = 2 |F_ BC | = 4-1 2-1.5 = 6 |F_ CD | = 4-4 4-2 = 0 |F_ DE | = |3-4| 5-4 = 1 Ranking: F_ BC > F_ AB > F_ DE > F_ CD