4.4 Simple Harmonic Motion

Question 1

Define

Simple Harmonic Motion

Answer 1

An object moves with simple harmonic motion if:
* Its acceleration is directly proportional to its displacement from a fixed point.
* Its acceleration is always directed towards that fixed point.

Question 2

Equation

Simple Harmonic Motion

Answer 2

a = -ω²x

Question 3

Equation

Period of oscillation for a simple pendulum.

Answer 3

T = 2π√^L⁄_g

Question 4

Equation

Period of oscillation for a loaded spring.

Answer 4

T = 2π√^m⁄_k

k is the spring constant.

Question 5

Equation

Displacement in Simple Harmonic Motion

Answer 5

x = A cos ωt

Question 6

Define

Free (or undamped) oscillations

Answer 6

• The amplitude of oscillation remains constant with time.
• No energy lost from the oscillating system.

Question 7

Define

Damped oscillations

Answer 7

Damping occurs when a resistive force causes an oscillating system to lose energy, resulting in a decrease in the amplitude of the oscillation.
- The amplitude of oscillation decreases with time.
- Energy is lost from the oscillating system to its surroundings.

Question 8

Define

Resonance

Answer 8

When a system is made to vibrate by a driving force which has a frequency that matches the natural frequency of oscillation of the system, then ressonance occurs.