Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2018 2018Moderate

In Simple Harmonic Motion the acceleration of the particle is zero when its:

Correct answer: B. Displacement is zero

  • A. Velocity is zero
  • B. Displacement is zero
  • C. Both velocity and displacement are zero
  • D. Both velocity and displacement are maximum

Explanation

As we know; a ∝-x Where a=acceleration x=displacement As long as the pendulum in harmonic motion is moving, it covers a displacement and thus has an acceleration. But as soon as it stops and comes to rest, the velocity and change in velocity are zero thus the acceleration is also zero and the displacement covered by it is also zero. Acceleration depends upon the change in velocity, if either final or initial velocity is zero it doesn't mean that acceleration is zero.The velocity is maximum at the mean position and displacement is maximum at the extreme so this option can't be justified to be correct.

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About Simple Harmonic Motion

Simple harmonic motion is oscillation in which acceleration is directly proportional to displacement and directed toward the equilibrium position. Work includes displacement, velocity, acceleration, phase, period, frequency, amplitude and energy, with applications to springs and simple pendulums. The restoring force and the conditions for SHM distinguish it from general periodic motion.

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