The force responsible for the simple harmonic motion of a simple pendulum is:
Correct answer: D. mg sinθ
- A. mg cosθ
- B. mg tanθ
- C. mg2 sinθ
- D. mg sinθ
Explanation
The force responsible for the simple harmonic motion of a simple pendulum is the component of gravitational force that acts along the arc of the pendulum's swing. This is given by mg sinθ, where mg is the weight of the pendulum bob and θ is the angle from the vertical. This force acts to restore the pendulum to its equilibrium position, hence it is known as the restoring force.Option A (mg cosθ) represents the component of gravitational force that acts perpendicular to the motion and does not contribute to the restoring motion. Option B (mg tanθ) is not a standard expression related to pendulum motion. Option C (mg2 sinθ) incorrectly suggests a squared force term, which is not applicable here.
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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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