Module 10 Flashcards
When does a pendulum exhibit simple harmonic motion?
When the angle of displacement for a simple pendulum is less than 20 degrees.
What is a radian?
A unit for measuring angle.
What are the levels of kinetic and potential energy a mass/spring system has at equilibrium?
It has no potential energy, but has maximum kinetic energy and therefore maximum speed.
What are the levels of kinetic and potential energy a mass/spring system has at the amplitude of its motion?
It has maximum potential energy, but no kinetic energy and therefore no speed.
When does a system exhibit simple harmonic motion?
When a restoring force that is linearly proportional to the displacement from equilibrium is applied to it.
What is the motion of a mass/spring system equivilent to?
The one dimensional equivalent of uniform circular motion.
What is the speed of a mass/spring system at the amplitude of motion?
zero.
What is the acceleration at the equilibrium position of a mass/spring system?
zero.
In a mass/spring system, when does the maximum speed occur?
At the equilibrium position?
In a mass/spring system, when does maximum acceleration occur?
At the amplitude of the motion.
What is simple harmonic motion?
Periodic motion whose period is independent of its amplitude.
What is amplitude?
The maximum distance away from equilibrium that an object in periodic motion travels.
What is a spring constant unit (k)?
Any force unit divided by any displacement unit. Newton/meter
What is restoring force?
A force, directed towards the system’s equilibrium position, which is applied as a result of the system’s displacement from equilibrium.
What is equilibrium position?
The position of an object when there are no net forces acting on it.
