Section 5.1 - Further Mechanics Exam Questions

Question 1

Explain the differences between two graphs showing the amplitude and frequency for two springs where one has a greater spring constant (4)

Answer 1

Resonance peak at higher frequency due to higher spring constant
Resonant peak broader due to damping (for higher k)

Question 2

State the conditions for simple harmonic motion (2)

Answer 2

Acceleration is proportional to displacement

Acceleration acts in the opposite direction to displacement

Question 3

Sand is placed on a surface oscillating up and down, explain why above a certain frequency, the sand loses contact with the surface (3)

Answer 3

When the vibrating surface accelerates down with an acceleration less than g, the sand stays in contact
Above a particular frequency, the acceleration is greater than g
There is no contact force on the sand