Simple harmonic motion is defined as motion in which the acceleration is
Correct answer: B. proportional to the displacement and directed towards the mean position
- A. constant in magnitude and direction
- B. proportional to the displacement and directed towards the mean position
- C. proportional to the speed
- D. always zero at the extreme positions
Explanation
The restoring force is proportional to the displacement and always points back to equilibrium, which produces sinusoidal motion in time. Acceleration is therefore greatest at the extremes, where displacement is maximum, and zero at the mean position, where the speed is greatest. A mass on a spring and a simple pendulum at small angles are the standard examples.
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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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