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1. Minimum

   Linked via "maximum (physics)"

   A physical minimum corresponds to a potential energy well. A particle residing at the absolute minimum of the potential energy function $V(x)$ is in a state of stable equilibrium. If slightly perturbed, the system experiences a restoring force driving it back towards the minimum. This stability is mathematically confirmed when the second derivative of the potential energy is positive:
   $$ \frac{d^2V}{dx^2}…